Media Statements - International transport expert comes to Perth

6/2/08

Advocates of sustainable transport will have the opportunity to hear world expert Dr Enrique Penalosa when he gives a free lecture at the University Club of Western Australia (UWA) next week.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said Dr Penalosa had transformed Bogota in Colombia, a city of 6.5 million, by promoting public transport, cycling and walking instead of using cars.

As mayor of Bogota between 1998-2001, Dr Penalosa instituted a number of initiatives, including ‘Car-Free Days’, which helped to change community attitudes to alternative transport.

Dr Penalosa developed a model for urban improvement based on the belief that all people should have equal access to transportation, education and public spaces.

“Dr Penalosa inspires his audience, bringing his practical experiences as a Mayor, journalist, economist and administrator together in a dynamic presentation,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“During his term as mayor of Bogota, he decided the streets need to be reclaimed for the people and built hundreds of kilometres of footpaths, bicycle paths, pedestrian streets and greenways.

“At the same time, he rebuilt more than 1,000 parks in the city and planted 100,000 trees.

“Bogota’s TransMilenio bus system was also created by Dr Penalosa and now carries half a million residents daily.”

The State Government is sponsoring Dr Penalosa’s visit.

Registration at http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/events is necessary to attend the free public lecture between 4pm and 5.30pm on Monday, February 11.

Dr Penalosa will also be presenting a talk at Murdoch University between 11am and noon on Tuesday, February 12.

Minister's Office - 9213 6400