Bethlehem Mobility 2030

The “Bethlehem Mobility 2030” Transport and Mobility Strategy is a comprehensive mobility plan designed to guide the region’s transportation development over the next decade. As the first initiative of its kind in the area,¹ it spans the cities of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour, along with the villages of Al Doha, Artas and Al Khader, and the three refugee camps.²
The strategy aims to adopt a holistic approach to address traffic challenges in the Bethlehem Conurbation, while fulfilling the transportation needs of both people and goods. It focuses on providing affordable, efficient, inclusive, and equitable access to transportation for all, while prioritizing pedestrian-friendly spaces.^{3 4} Additionally, the strategy seeks to reduce air pollution and minimize waste and noise.⁵
By outlining the essential changes and interventions, the strategy envisions “transforming the Bethlehem Conurbation into an accessible, livable, and attractive destination for residents, commuters, and visitors alike”.⁶

The plan outlines a comprehensive methodology for data collection and analysis, adopting an interdisciplinary approach to address various aspects of transport planning in the Bethlehem Conurbation. It examines both current and future trends, with a focus on road networks, car usage, parking, public transport, non-motorized transport, city logistics, and tourism.⁷

This analysis resulted in a detailed action plan comprising 99 measures, categorized into three key areas: (1) Hardware (Infrastructure development and planning), (2) Software (Education and cultural initiatives), and (3) Organizational activities (Capacity building, governance, and institutional improvements). Of these 99 measures, 39 projects have already been developed to a pre-feasibility stage, set to be implemented during the project’s timeline between 2020 and 2030.⁸
These projects are grouped under seven guiding principles:⁹

• Improvement and categorization of road network
• Expansion and optimization of public transport network
• Parking management
• Walking and street space
• Intensive communication, awareness and education campaigns
• Adoption of new car modes and innovation
• Introduction of new financial and organizational models

The project is built on a participatory and co-creative process, actively involving all relevant stakeholders.¹⁰ The 39 identified projects were thoroughly discussed in multiple sessions with stakeholders, including representatives from Bethlehem Municipality and other key actors, ensuring collaborative input and alignment with local needs and priorities.¹¹
Initiated by the municipality of Bethlehem,¹² the project is led by consultant consortium consisting of the Community Development Group (CDG) and Move Mobility.¹³ The project received support and funding from the City of Paris “Ville de Paris” and the French Development Agency (AFD).^{14 15}