Motivate instead of forcing

Parking ticket prices have skyrocketed in some places recently. In some cities or localities, even four-figure amounts were/are planned for annual parking permits. There are many reasons for this, but in most cases price increases are also intended to have an impact on the climate. The climate goal must justify the means.

I can also understand that public transport should be used as much as possible for climatic reasons. That’s why I always do my best to keep it evolving with the times in terms of price and product range. I want it to be compelling—and to be used by anyone who can use it. But here’s the catch: there will still be people for whom public transport, unfortunately, does not work, if only because they work in shifts. If only because they live far away. Whether it’s because they have poor connections or because they have to transport a lot. Or because they can’t help themselves professionally: Or have you ever seen a plumber with a washbasin on a tram?

There are many reasons, but these people are also entitled to affordable mobility. This is why, among other things, I strive to ensure that parking ticket prices remain affordable and that the price is not dictated by the often hypothetical maximum steering effect. Based on the information available to me, I am of the opinion that a reasonable and equivalent rate for residents’ parking cards should not exceed CHF 400 per year.

I have already recommended it to many cities and communities. This year alone, I managed to prevent large or very large price increases in about ten cities and municipalities in German-speaking Switzerland and the canton of Vaud. These include the cities of Baden and Bern.

Things are still moving forward in Bern: although the planned increase, also based on my recommendation, should be about half of what was originally planned, many Bernese still feel that this is too much. The collection of signatures for the referendum continues.

In my opinion, this is also a sign that some people have reached their financial limits. That’s why I worry: is it even right to want to drive shift workers, tram drivers (someone has to get the first tram out of the depot in the morning!) or remote retail workers with their often small wallets?

I am convinced that motivation, i.e. good alternative proposals, is the best way. Thus, all those who can be led can be led, and those who are not or are not yet alive can also live. It’s true, we’re all in the same boat and we need to move faster. The solution must be to improve the propulsion system and prevent half the crew from going overboard.