Sustainable Development Policies

11.4.6

Pedestrian Priority on Campus

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to promote and implement a pedestrian-first mobility framework across all University of Thessaly campuses. The Policy seeks to ensure that movement within University grounds prioritizes the safety, comfort, and accessibility of pedestrians, while supporting sustainable urban design and reducing vehicular congestion.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all campuses, facilities, and surrounding areas of the University of Thessaly, including roads, walkways, parking lots, green spaces, and open areas. It applies to students, staff, faculty, visitors, and contractors using University spaces and facilities.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy is aligned with: Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law); Law 4782/2021 (Sustainable Public Infrastructure); Law 4485/2017 (Framework for Higher Education); Presidential Decree 104/2019 (Accessibility in Public Infrastructure); EU Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMP); and UN SDGs 3 and 11.

4. Policy Statement

1. The University of Thessaly shall prioritize pedestrian mobility and safety in all campus areas.
   2. All University campuses shall be progressively transformed into pedestrian-friendly environments, minimizing unnecessary vehicle access and enhancing walkability.
   3. Pedestrian pathways shall be designed to ensure universal accessibility, sufficient lighting and signage, shade and resting areas, separation from motorized traffic, and safe crossings and ramps compliant with accessibility standards.
   4. Vehicle access within campus grounds shall be limited to authorized vehicles, including emergency, maintenance, and accessibility transport.
   5. Parking areas shall be located at the periphery of campuses to reduce internal traffic flow.
   6. Bicycle lanes shall be developed parallel to pedestrian routes, where feasible, to support multimodal, low-emission commuting.
   7. The University shall install signage clearly indicating pedestrian priority zones and traffic restrictions.
   8. The University shall ensure that campus design, renovations, and new constructions comply with pedestrian-priority standards.
   9. Awareness campaigns shall be conducted annually to promote walking, safety, and sustainability among students and staff.
   10. The University shall collaborate with local municipalities to enhance pedestrian connections between campuses and urban areas.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector oversees implementation.
– The Technical Services Department is responsible for design, construction, and maintenance of pedestrian infrastructure.
– The Public Relations Office coordinates information campaigns and community outreach.

6. Monitoring and Review

The University shall conduct periodic assessments of pedestrian infrastructure, safety, and accessibility. This Policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier, if required by law or infrastructure development plans.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law);
Law 4782/2021 (Sustainable Public Infrastructure);
Presidential Decree 104/2019 (Accessibility);
EU SUMP Guidelines;
UN SDGs 3 and 11;