France's National Cycling Policies: Key Resources from Vélo & Territoires' Updated Hub

Policy
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Vélo & Territoires, a leading French organization advocating for cycling infrastructure and policy, has rebranded as part of Réseau vélo et marche following its merger with the Club des villes et territoires cyclables et marchables. Their dedicated page on national cycling policies serves as a comprehensive resource hub, detailing veloroutes, data standards, funding, tourism initiatives, and more. This update underscores France’s ongoing commitment to expanding cycling networks amid growing sustainable transport demands.

Background

France has been a pioneer in national cycling strategies, with Vélo & Territoires playing a central role in coordinating policies, schemas, and data tools. The “Politiques nationales” page outlines key areas such as the national veloroute schema (including routes like V16 Avenue Verte London-Paris and EuroVelo networks), data models for cycling infrastructure (e.g., geostandards for veloroutes and parking schemas), funding opportunities, signaling standards, and initiatives like “France à vélo 2030” and “Mai à vélo.” It also covers specialized topics like cycling in low-density areas, intermodality, and tourism programs such as Accueil Vélo and Fluvestre, reflecting a holistic approach to integrating cycling into urban and rural planning.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, discussions around the post-2025 evolution of France’s Plan Vélo highlight uncertainties in funding and continuity, with Vélo & Territoires (now Réseau vélo et marche) advocating for sustained investment. A recent position paper for the 2025 Funding Conference of Mobilities emphasizes the need for robust national support to maintain momentum in infrastructure development and data standardization. As EuroVelo routes expand and regional schemas align, France aims to solidify its position as a cycling leader in Europe.

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