New project aims to link villages by bike
A new research initiative called ProvinzNETZ has been launched in Germany to improve mobility and quality of life in rural regions. The project focuses on developing cycling infrastructure that connects villages and smaller towns.
Researchers are examining how everyday destinations such as schools, healthcare services, shops and leisure facilities can become more accessible without the need for private cars. Improving mobility options is considered essential for many rural communities.
While cycling infrastructure has expanded significantly in major German cities in recent years, rural areas still face considerable challenges. Distances between settlements are often long, cycling routes are fragmented, and public transport options are limited.
The project is being carried out by the Department of Cycling and Sustainable Mobility at the University of Kassel together with the Technical University of Wildau and the civic initiative geRADeWEGs from the Gotha district in the German state of Thuringia. Funding is provided by the Federal Ministry for Transport under the National Cycling Plan 2030.
ProvinzNETZ runs from November 2025 to October 2028. The research includes a model region in the Gotha district as well as several comparison regions across Germany. Researchers aim to develop practical tools and recommendations that municipalities can use to plan and expand cycling networks.
The project builds on the widely discussed urban planning concept of the “15-minute city”, where essential services can be reached within a short time. In this case, the idea is adapted for rural regions. Distances of up to five kilometres could be covered within about fifteen minutes by bicycle or e-bike.
The initiative combines scientific research, civic engagement and inter-municipal cooperation. Its goal is to demonstrate how active mobility can contribute to sustainable development and improved accessibility in rural areas.
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