Mobility stations on private ground owned by Münchner Wohnen are an important part of sustainable and fair urban development in Munich. They combine environmentally friendly mobility with affordable housing. This helps make housing areas and neighbourhoods more liveable, inclusive, and climate-friendly. Especially in subsidised housing, mobility stations support social participation and improve public spaces.
Mobility stations bring together different bicycle-based services, such as bike sharing, car-sharing and secure bike parking. This makes it easier for people to switch from cars to sustainable transport. The stations are located close to residents’ homes and are only planned where there are good connections to local services and public transport. They offer easy access to mobility, especially for people who previously had limited options. This increases personal freedom of movement and makes it easier to take part in social life.
Mobility stations also help achieve climate and environmental goals. They reduce private car use and lower emissions. At the same time, they support the development of a city that is more friendly to cyclists and pedestrians. Public spaces can therefore be used in more flexible and meaningful ways.
Involving residents is a key factor for success. This is done through information and participation activities, such as mobility advice or community events. These activities encourage people to use the services and help build a sense of shared responsibility. When mobility stations replace parking spaces, new open areas are created for green spaces, meeting places, and recreation. In this way, mobility stations connect social housing, sustainable mobility, and integrated urban development.
Making Sustainable Mobility the Default Choice in Affordable Neighbourhoods
The project aimed to make mobility stations a normal and permanent part of residential neighbourhoods, especially in subsidised and affordable housing. By placing sustainable mobility options directly where people live, the project created practical and environmentally friendly alternatives to private cars in everyday life. The goal was to reduce car use, promote eco-friendly transport, and make mobility easy and accessible for all residents.
At the same time, the lower need for parking spaces helped reduce construction costs. It also made it possible to use space in new ways. This includes green areas, rainwater infiltration spaces, large trees, places for recreation, and meeting areas. Overall, the project aimed to bring together affordable housing, sustainable mobility, and liveable neighbourhoods. In this way, it supports climate-friendly and people-centred urban development.
Designing for Longevity
A key focus of the project was to design mobility stations so that they can operate mostly on their own. The goal was to make sure they stay usable over a long period of time. Clear responsibilities, easy-to-use systems, and a robust design allow the stations to run without much organisational effort.
Another important success factor was the active involvement of tenants. Motivated residents were recruited as local contacts. They help with the care, use, and further development of the mobility stations. This sponsorship model strengthens the sense of responsibility in the neighbourhood, builds commitment, and ensures that the mobility stations are accepted and regularly used in everyday life over the long term.
Outcomes of the project
The mobility stations provided by Münchner Wohnen have been very well received by residents. Early evaluations and feedback show that bicycle-related services are used regularly and more often over time. There is also a starting shift from using private cars to using bicycles and walking. Short trips within the neighbourhood are especially being made without a car.
The project is also having an impact at an organisational level. The mobility stations improve Münchner Wohnen’s public image and are seen by city staff and politicians as a practical contribution to climate protection, sustainable mobility, and affordable housing. The project is increasingly used as a model for other neighbourhoods and as a basis for expanding sustainable mobility solutions in municipal housing projects.
Key Takeaways
The project shows that it is important to consider the different needs of residents from the very beginning when planning new housing. Everyday mobility starts and ends right at people’s front doors. That is why it makes sense to integrate sustainable options, such as mobility stations, directly into residential neighbourhoods. This helps reduce car use, makes everyday travel easier and improves quality of life.
Another key lesson is that involving all stakeholders early on is essential. This includes people within the organisation as well as decision-makers at the political level. Early involvement helps build acceptance, support, and long-term success. At the same time, the active participation of local residents is crucial to ensure the services are used and to strengthen their sense of responsibility within their neighbourhood.
The project shows that housing development and the mobility transition are closely connected. Integrated approaches help make cities more sustainable, socially inclusive, and liveable.
Find out More
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