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900 bikes for Utrecht’s 900th birthday
The Dutch city of Utrecht, led by Mayor Sharon Dijksma, is celebrating its 900th birthday this year. To mark this special occasion, a number of organizations from the Dutch city will provide a total of 900 second-hand bikes for an affordable price to its residents, it was announced on the city’s official website.
The bikes will cost 30 euros and are intended for Utrecht residents with low incomes. In addition to the new bike, 900 Utrechters will also receive free bicycle maintenance for a year, meaning they repair their bike for free if necessary.
The project named ‘’Fietsdeal’’ (bicycle deal) is a collaboration between the municipality of Utrecht, Sport Utrecht, Fietsersbond, BikeFlip and Heel Utrecht Fietst. All Utrecht residents who are holders of U-pas are eligible to take part in this project and apply for a bike. After applying for a bike online, an appointment is made during which people are able to choose their most prefered bike.
The partnering parties in Overvecht have already provided 300 bicycles, while the Fietsersbond has collected 100 children’s bicycles. Another 500 bicycles are set to be added in the near future as part of this project.
Utrecht already has a reputation of a cycling city, and the city government wants every inhabitant to be able to cycle. According to Utrecht’s website, the city is making significant investments into bike lanes, parking lots, and speedy routes, as well as making the bicycles more accessible to everyone. Residents will be able to travel to work and participate in social events more easily as a result of this.
Furthermore, cycling is another active mode of transportation that helps keep Utrecht residents fit and healthy. It was recently announced that the city of Utrecht aspires to become a global health hub. The Dutch city hopes to become an international leader in creating a healthy living environment for its citizens through partnership between businesses, academic institutions, and government organizations. (photo credit: Waldemar Brandt/Unsplash)
