PER-MOVE project partners met in Požega, in the Croatian region of Slavonia, to continue their work on developing sustainable and inclusive mobility solutions. The discussions focused on concrete measures to be tested in three pilot areas: demand-responsive transport in Škofja Loka, an additional bus line in Požega, and bicycle-based micromobility solutions in Szarvas.
The meeting brought together representatives of the Municipality of Škofja Loka, Development Agency Sora, the Institute of Traffic and Transport Ljubljana, the Local Development Agency Požega (LO-RA), the City of Požega and the City of Szarvas.
Participants were welcomed by Ida Dumančić, Director of the Local Development Agency Požega (LO-RA), followed by opening remarks from Irena Martinek, Deputy Mayor of Požega, and Rok Primožič, Head of the Mayor’s Office of the Municipality of Škofja Loka. Dr. Csaba Bartolák, Deputy Mayor of Szarvas, highlighted the importance of cooperation between towns of similar size in projects like PER-MOVE, as they face comparable challenges and can benefit from exchanging experiences and jointly developing solutions tailored to their local needs.
Building on the mobility analyses conducted so far and the results of surveys, partners discussed further involvement of residents and key stakeholders, as well as preparations for the pilot activities. Particular attention was given to adapting the proposed solutions to users’ needs and improving connectivity between urban centres and their surrounding rural areas.
A short workshop provided an opportunity to bring together partners’ views and suggestions on the next steps for the pilot activities. Through focused and productive discussions, we agreed on key priorities, responsibilities and deadlines for the upcoming activities.
In the late afternoon, our hosts also took us on a tour of the picturesque town of Požega, known for its rich cultural heritage. We visited the Požega City Museum, where historical objects, audio content and visual presentations bring the region’s history to life. The exhibition took us on a journey from the ancient Pannonian Sea through the Iron Age to the period of Ottoman rule, exploring the conflicts and stories that have shaped the town and its surroundings.
Many thanks to our hosts for their hospitality and to all project partners for their valuable contributions. We return from Požega with a clear roadmap for the next steps and new insights that will support the continued implementation of the PER-MOVE project.