Yerevan Advances Sustainable Mobility: 2nd Public Workshop Showcases Vision for Electric Transport Future

Yerevan, Armenia – April 30, 2026

Yerevan took a significant step toward a greener, more efficient future as the city hosted the 2nd Public Workshop of the Sustainable Urban Transport & Electric Mobility Project at Holiday Inn Yerevan. The event marked a crucial milestone in the city's transformation toward sustainable urban mobility.

Collaborative Progress Toward Sustainable Transport

Organised by the International Consortium working on the project, with support from Yerevan Municipality, the Yerevan Urban Development Programs Project Implementation Unit (PIU), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. Representatives from public institutions, international partners, technical experts, and civil society gathered to review the project's progress, outcomes, and chart the path forward.

The workshop opened with insightful remarks from Aneta Babayan (Yerevan Urban Development Programs PIU), Nicolas E. Dei Castelli (Asian Development Bank), and Livia Delgado (International Consortium), setting the tone for a focused and productive discussion.

Guiding the day's agenda was Poghos Shahinyan, Deputy Team Leader of the International Consortium and Director of the National Road Safety Council, who facilitated the workshop. His expertise in road safety and transport planning helped steer conversations toward practical, evidence-based solutions that balance innovation with public safety.

Comprehensive Infrastructure Modernisation

Participants explored detailed conceptual designs that represent a comprehensive overhaul of Yerevan's transport infrastructure. Central to the proposal is the renovation of two major bus depots to modern international standards. These upgraded facilities will be equipped with state-of-the-art charging infrastructure sp

specifically designed to accommodate electric buses, marking a decisive shift away from fossil fuel-dependent public transport.

The workshop also introduced Yerevan's first-ever Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), a digital solution that will revolutionise how the city manages traffic. The ITS will digitalise daily transport operations, provide signal priority for public transport vehicles at intersections, and significantly reduce congestion throughout the city. By giving buses priority on the road, the system ensures faster, more reliable service that makes public transport a more attractive option for daily commuters.

The Modal Shift: Transforming Yerevan's Transport Culture

A key focus of the workshop was the concept of modal shift – a fundamental transformation in how residents choose to move around the city. Modal shift refers to the strategic movement of commuters from private vehicles to more sustainable modes of transport, including electric buses, cycling, and walking.

Why does this matter for Yerevan?

The benefits of successful modal shift are transformative:

• Reduced Traffic Congestion: Fewer private cars on the road mean smoother traffic flow and shorter commute times for everyone

• Improved Air Quality: Electric buses and reduced car usage dramatically lower emissions, creating a healthier urban environment

• Enhanced Livability: Less congestion and pollution make Yerevan more pleasant to live in, work in, and visit

• Economic Efficiency: Public transport is more cost-effective for both the city and individual residents

• Space Optimisation: Reduced need for parking frees up valuable urban space for parks, pedestrian areas, and community use

The project's integrated approach – combining electric buses, priority lanes, digital management systems, and cycling infrastructure – creates the conditions necessary for this modal shift to succeed.

First-Ever Corridor Infrastructure for Yerevan

The workshop unveiled plans for new bus stops along two major corridors – a first for Yerevan. These modern stops will feature accessibility improvements, real-time information displays, and passenger amenities that bring the city's public transport infrastructure in line with international standards.

Safety received particular attention through the iRAP (International Road Assessment Programme) assessment of the two corridors. Based on this rigorous safety evaluation, the project proposes a 30 km/h speed limit along these routes. This calibrated approach ensures smooth traffic flow while prioritizing the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport passengers.

Embracing Active Mobility: 23 Kilometres of Bicycle Lanes

In a significant boost for active transportation, the project incorporates 23 kilometres of dedicated bicycle lanes along the transport corridors. This cycling infrastructure will:

• Provide safe, separated routes for cyclists

• Connect key areas of the city

• Encourage healthy, zero-emission transportation

• Integrate seamlessly with the electric bus network for multi-modal journeys

Transparent Dialogue Shapes the Future

The workshop enabled open dialogue and stakeholder feedback, reinforcing the project's commitment to a transparent, inclusive planning process. Participants engaged in constructive discussions that bridged technical expertise with community perspectives. This collaborative approach ensures that the final transport system reflects the needs and aspirations of Yerevan's residents.

The Sustainable Urban Transport & Electric Mobility Project represents more than infrastructure upgrades – it embodies Yerevan's vision for a modern, sustainable, and livable city. By integrating electric mobility, intelligent systems, safety improvements, and active transport options, the project lays the foundation for a transport revolution that will serve Yerevan for generations to come.

As the city moves forward with implementation, the focus remains on creating a transport system that is efficient, environmentally responsible, and accessible to all residents – transforming not just how people move, but how they experience their city.