MANAGING TRAFFIC GROWTH IN POLISH CITIES

The characteristics of the urban transport system, and transport policy proposals, are discussed for the Polish cities of Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw. It is found that transport problems in large Polish cities are similar, and are related to several common factors, for example, the cities have very limited finances. The potential of tram and bus is underestimated. It is difficult to gain approval of proposals about car traffic constraint, parking charges, and public transport priority measures. Cities revising their transport policies late have escalating transport problems. The transport situation is made worse by poor cooperation and many conflicts between decision makers. During the transition to democracy, transport policies were considerably changed, with many large cities taking practical steps such as car restraint policies. Much more practical policies have emerged for public transport upgrading. Institutional structures have been changing. Feasible solutions to emerging urban transport problems should be based on: (1) better use of existing road and public transport systems; (2) giving priority to tram and bus, using traffic management; (3) promoting and facilitating walking and cycling; (4) parking, pricing and traffic calming measures in highest density areas; and (5) road pricing. For the covering abstract, see IRRD 893662.