Perugia Municipality created the Home-Work Journey Plan to change the travel habits of its employees and reduce private car use for commuting. Perugia Municipality’s (MUPER) head office employs almost 600 staff and is based in the city centre. The offices have generated a significant car commuting problem, with a lack of parking facilities also an issue, leading to congestion within the city centre. The Home-Work Journey Plan raises awareness amongst employees and encourages the use of sustainable modes of transport.
An initial survey and analysis of staff commuting behaviours was carried out to establish a baseline scenario – data was gathered from questionnaires which were distributed to MUPER employees. Additional research was carried out to determine how other best practice municipal bodies supported sustainable transport. Restrictive and permissive actions were also explored, and stakeholders engaged where adjustments were needed to local transport networks. For instance, some adjustments to bus routes and timetables were required to make bus transport a realistic option for employees.
Following this initial feasibility phase a selection of sustainable transport initiatives were launched under the plan including promoting public transport, car-pooling, and car-sharing. A follow-up survey was also carried out to evaluate the success of the measures employed. A communications plan was also launched to disseminate the Plan and engage employees, with an internal brochure, information campaigns, and website and Metropolitan TV advertisements.
A wider dissemination programme was employed to share the Municipalities learning and to raise awareness amongst other public bodies and the private sector companies operating within the city. It was also observed through the follow-up survey that the Plan helped to reduce the overall presence of cars within the city centre during peak times, while improving parking availability for other groups of car users.
The outcome of the Plan has seen a positive change in employees’ commuting travel patterns and a greater satisfaction among employees with their journeys. Perugia are currently working to increase the proportion of employees adopting the travel Plan; and in the longer term plans to facilitate home or remote working.