OTWO Magazine May 2024 | Page 23

Noticias breves

PAUL BALBAN , BICYCLE MAYOR OF GIBRALTAR .
Last month , former Minister for Transport , Mr . Paul Balban , has been appointed as the Bicycle Mayor of Gibraltar by the BYCS - Bicycle Mayor Network . Founded in 2016 , BYCS seeks to unite global cycling advocates to tackle urban challenges collaboratively . With 100 Bicycle Mayors worldwide as of 2020 and the establishment of the BYCS India Foundation in 2021 , the network promotes cooperation between governments , communities , and industries to advocate for cycling as a non-political solution for greener , safer cities .
Balban , recognized for spearheading Gibraltar ' s first segregated bicycle lanes , underscores the importance of understanding cyclists ' perspectives to improve cycling infrastructure . Despite Gibraltar ' s limited size and high vehicle ownership rates , Balban remains committed to promoting cycling as a viable mode of transportation . His appointment within the broader Bicycle Mayor Network reflects a global endeavor to advance cycling initiatives and foster sustainable urban development .
In response to his appointment , Gibraltar ’ s new Bicycle Mayor expressed his dedication to promoting and encouraging cycling within the community . “ The work and challenge continues for me , trying to promote and encourage cycling as a mode of transport within Gibraltar . It is my aim to try to support and provide those responsible for promoting a safer environment for cyclists , to understand how cyclists see the world on the ground through their eyes and how even little things , that can seem meaningless
12 OTWO 58 / MAY 2024