As a taster for our upcoming Festival of Architecture, a bicycle ride is to take place along the streets of Warsaw two weeks before the conference – on September 7^th, 2018.

THE IDEA

The idea behind the bike ride is to stimulate discussion between real estate and construction market players on the future of our cities. As the density of the development in large conurbations such as Warsaw and Kraków increases, their inhabitants’ public transport systems and quality of life are impacted. But by getting away from our office desks and onto our bikes, we will be able see the actual problems faced by those living in cities. We will then discuss the infrastructural issues as well as the challenges that need to be met by urban planners – and together will try to come up with conclusions about whether a transport meltdown is on the cards in a few years’ time, or if, instead, we will be living in friendly, healthy and attractive cities. The event has been devised to provide everyone with the opportunity to share their views on planning green areas, transport systems as well as access, walking and cycle paths.

This year we will be focusing on the problems of the city’s Wola district, which has been experiencing a construction boom as residential and office projects spring up across it. Wola’s whole character is being reshaped. But will it eventually be a friendly place for local residents and office users? We will discuss Wola’s future during and after the bike ride.

Anyone can participate in the event and everyone who does so will be encouraged to share their views. This year we invite people who work in Wola, residents and enthusiasts of this district and local government officials to participate.

THE PLAN

– Starts at 16:30 on September 7^th

– The two or three starting points will be located near selected office buildings. Those participating will receive maps of the route

– Bicycles will be provided at the starting points (it will also possible to bring your own bike)

– Each group will have a supervisor provided by the organiser

– En route the participants will stop at few places and discuss the architecture and space they encounter

– At the end of the ride a meeting will be held with representatives of the city of Warsaw and Wola district

– Comments and conclusions from the ride will then be discussed in an informal atmosphere

Length of the route: about 5 km

Important: office clothing is preferred!