Ghent trials innovative solution to enhance cyclists’ safety near tram tracks

Ghent is piloting a safety measure to prevent bikes from getting stuck in tram tracks by filling some tracks with an elastic compound. Partnering with De Lijn, the Flemish regional transport provider, the City of Ghent conducted initial tests at the tram depot before implementing the trial in operational settings.

The compound, a two-component elastic material resistant to UV rays, is placed at a height to avoid contact with tram wheels. Previous tests assessed the compound's effectiveness at the depot and a tram stop, leading to the current trial in real-life conditions. The evaluation involves comparing images before and after installation to objectively gauge cyclists' behavior.

A study by Ghent University Hospital in August 2021 revealed that around 500 people annually sought emergency care due to falls on tram tracks, with over half attributed to bike wheels getting stuck in rail grooves. This initiative aims to mitigate such incidents and enhance safety for cyclists navigating the city's tram network.