Guidelines for developing and implementing a SUMP (2nd edition)

The guidelines provide a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing the complexities of urban transport planning. The primary issue these guidelines tackle is the need for sustainable urban mobility that enhances the quality of life in cities while reducing traffic congestion, pollution, and reliance on non-renewable energy sources. 

The underlying issue: The guidelines recognize that traditional urban transport planning, which often focuses on traffic flow and infrastructure, is insufficient to meet the growing challenges of urbanization, climate change, and societal demands for healthier and more equitable living environments. The aim is to transition from car-centric models to sustainable, inclusive, and integrated transport systems that serve the diverse needs of all urban inhabitants. 

Methodology

The SUMP framework is structured around a cyclical planning process, emphasizing continuous improvement and adaptability to local contexts. The methodology includes: 

1. Comprehensive Analysis: Begin with a detailed assessment of the current mobility situation, resources, and institutional capacities. This phase identifies existing problems, opportunities, and the geographic scope of the plan. 
2. Stakeholder Involvement: Engage citizens, stakeholders, and various levels of government from the start to ensure that the plan reflects diverse needs and gains broad support. 
3. Vision and Objectives: Develop a shared long-term vision for urban mobility, coupled with specific, measurable objectives and targets that address key sustainability issues like air quality, road safety, and social equity. 
4. Integrated Planning: Formulate and implement a coherent set of policies and measures that address all transport modes, including public transit, cycling, walking, and freight, ensuring their integration with land use and environmental planning. 
5. Implementation and Monitoring: Ensure that the plan is not only adopted but also implemented effectively. This involves clear allocation of responsibilities, securing funding, and establishing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress and adapt as necessary. 
6. Continuous Improvement: Treat the SUMP as a living document, revising and updating it regularly based on monitoring results and evolving urban needs and challenges. 

By following these guidelines, cities can create sustainable urban mobility systems that are resilient, equitable, and capable of meeting future challenges. 

Guiding principles 

The SUMP framework is grounded in several key guiding principles aimed at fostering a more sustainable, equitable, and integrated approach to urban mobility. These principles include: 

1. People-Centered Planning: Unlike traditional transport planning, which focuses on vehicle traffic, the SUMP emphasizes the mobility needs of people, aiming to improve accessibility and quality of life. The goal is to create urban environments where walking, cycling, and public transport are prioritised. 
2. Integration Across Sectors: the SUMP promotes the integration of transport planning with other urban policies, including land use, environmental protection, social inclusion, and economic development. This holistic approach ensures that mobility solutions contribute to broader urban sustainability goals. 
3. Participation and Collaboration: Active involvement of citizens and stakeholders is essential throughout the planning process. The SUMP encourages transparent, inclusive participation to ensure that the plan reflects the needs and aspirations of all urban residents. 
4. Long-Term Vision with Clear Objectives: the SUMP requires a long-term vision for urban mobility, supported by specific, measurable objectives and targets. This vision should address current and future mobility challenges, including those related to climate change, public health, and social equity. 
5. Evidence-Based Decision Making: The planning process is grounded in a thorough analysis of the current mobility situation, future trends, and potential impacts of proposed measures. Decisions should be informed by data and evidence to ensure they are effective and efficient. 
6. Flexibility and Adaptability: The SUMP process is designed to be adaptable to the specific context of each city. It encourages planners to make necessary adjustments based on local conditions, while adhering to the overall principles of sustainable mobility. 

Main Recommendations 

1. Start with a Strong Commitment: Political and institutional commitment is crucial for the successful development and implementation of a SUMP. Cities should ensure that all relevant stakeholders are on board from the beginning and that there is a clear mandate to pursue sustainable urban mobility. 
2. Comprehensive Analysis and Scenario Building: Conduct a thorough analysis of the current mobility situation, including problems, opportunities, and future trends. Use this analysis to build scenarios that explore different strategic directions, providing a robust foundation for decision-making. 
3. Engage Stakeholders and Citizens: Involve a wide range of stakeholders, including local residents, businesses, transport operators, and public authorities, in the planning process. Early and continuous engagement helps build consensus and ensures the plan reflects the community’s needs. 
4. Develop a Coherent Vision and Strategy: Create a shared vision for the future of urban mobility that aligns with broader urban development goals. This vision should be translated into specific objectives, targets, and indicators that guide the selection of measures and policies. 
5. Integrate and Prioritize Measures: Develop an integrated set of measures that address all sustainable transport modes and aspects of urban mobility.  
6. Plan for Implementation and Monitoring: Ensure that the SUMP includes a clear implementation plan with defined actions, responsibilities, timelines, and budgets.  
7. Foster Continuous Improvement: Treat the SUMP as a living document that evolves over time.