Since 2014, together with our partner companies who hold leading positions and high authority worldwide, we have presented numerous projects of strategic importance. These companies create significant economic wealth in the modern world and implement innovative projects.
It is vital to rapidly initiate urban decompression and development throughout Tbilisi and all of Georgia. It is especially necessary to begin and timely complete key projects in our capital, such as the construction of multi-story parking systems, the development of bike lanes, the promotion of cycling culture, and the establishment and effective management of bicycle systems.
Developing a tram system is critical for the city’s vitality, requiring efficient infrastructural works. Furthermore, bus payment systems must be updated promptly, and innovative technologies should be integrated across the entire public transport network.
Our goal is to develop the overall infrastructure through these impressive and rational projects, making Tbilisi and all of Georgia more attractive to tourists. We have brought numerous solid companies to Georgia that are ready to implement the most ambitious projects alongside us, thereby creating additional jobs.
Each project we undertake, both in the capital and the regions, is carried out within the “Smart City” framework. It is essential for city officials to realize these strategic projects within the Smart City concept in Tbilisi and several other Georgian cities.
Together as a society, we must be able to build and develop 21st-century cities in a way that preserves the historic architectural integrity of the city while maximizing the use of the world’s most advanced technologies. I will repeat many times and emphasize that the 21st century is not the era of black SUVs, poor taste, or outdated Soviet-style stagnant thinking; it is the century of opportunity, innovative technologies, and the highest level of human development.
It is impossible to imagine a modern city today without bicycles. Our initiative group brought a representative from “SMOOVE,” one of the world’s leading companies, to Georgia. Meetings were organized at the city halls of Tbilisi, Zugdidi, Kutaisi, and Poti.
Established in 2008, the company focuses on the design, manufacturing, installation, and control of automated bike-sharing systems, as well as their technical maintenance, management, and additional cycling services. The company is French, headquartered in the southern part of France, with offices in Lyon and Montpellier. It is composed of highly qualified employees, and its primary subcontractors are also French firms.
Currently, SMOOVE operates 460 bicycle rental terminals with 8,500 bicycles across 20 cities in 12 countries worldwide.
Company representatives have conducted a study of Tbilisi’s terrain and concluded that the majority of the city is well-suited for a bike-sharing system. The company provides premium-quality bicycles integrated with the world’s most advanced management systems. Wherever the company has launched, its bicycles have become an iconic “calling card” for the city. We are confident it will be equally successful among both local residents and tourists.
In the initial phase, we believe it is essential to establish the bike-sharing network in central districts. To launch the system effectively, approximately 250–300 bicycles and 35 terminals will be required. Subsequently, the number of bicycles and terminals will be increased in stages.
The company has also surveyed other Georgian cities, including Zugdidi, Kutaisi, and Poti. A particularly vital route is the Zugdidi-Anaklia corridor, which holds exceptional interest for tourism development.
First and foremost, the development of dedicated cycling lanes is essential in our city. Before the cycling lanes are constructed, comprehensive research and design work must be carried out. The choice of the company responsible for these tasks is of paramount importance. We have identified several highly experienced companies capable of executing these works to the highest standards. Should there be interest, they are prepared to visit and conduct the research and design phase with professional excellence.
In 2011, we implemented a landmark project in Batumi known as “Batumvelo.” As part of this initiative, dedicated lanes were developed, and 23 bicycle terminals with a fleet of 370 bicycles were established.
Cycling is facilitated through specialized bike lanes integrated across the city. Bicycles can be rented from terminals situated along the coastal strip of both the Old and New Boulevards. As you are aware, Batumvelo currently stands as one of the most successful projects in Georgia and is a favorite among tourists for its convenience. It is evident that this project has significantly bolstered the tourism potential of Batumi and the entire Adjara region.
The tram is considered one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transport in the world. The tram is not foreign to Tbilisi. It has always been popular in our city. Modern trams will comfortably serve the city’s residents and guests, enhance Tbilisi’s aesthetic appeal, and significantly relieve our city from traffic congestion.
The company “PESA” is currently one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trams. If there is interest, the company’s representatives are ready to organize business meetings in our capital. We are aware that a tram system is a significant investment; however, we believe the scope of work is so extensive and involves such a long-term process that it is time to start working on this issue now. This way, when the necessary finances become available, the city will be prepared to implement the project.
Trams and bicycles are the best solution for a modern city. They will further enhance our city’s beauty and make it more attractive to tourists. They will make commuting easier for our population and relieve the city of traffic congestion.
The current ticketing system in Tbilisi does not meet modern requirements. That is precisely why we have been collaborating with “R@G,” the best company in Europe, for a long time. The company has successfully implemented ticketing systems in many cities around the world. The company’s leadership has visited Tbilisi twice this year.
They held meetings at the Tbilisi City Hall, with the Tbilisi Transport Company, and with banks. The presentation delivered by the company earned approval everywhere. The products they manufacture are of the highest quality.
The company manufactures all the equipment necessary for creating a modern electronic ticketing system and, at the same time, provides the software support. Implementing this system will fully streamline the financial side, significantly increase the level of passenger service, and greatly simplify operations for the transport company, providing a substantial economic effect during management. The company “R@G” guarantees that it will establish the most modern electronic ticketing system in our city, equipped with the best hardware and software.
Currently, there are many so-called duplicated bus routes within Tbilisi’s existing transit lines. Several bus routes pass through the same street, which significantly increases the transport company’s expenses. Establishing special transfer terminals in the city is the best solution for the optimal use of transport resources, significantly reducing the company’s transportation costs, partially resolving the traffic congestion problem, and decreasing exhaust emissions.
Establishing a modern European-style transit enterprise for buses is of vital importance.
It is essential to transition the bus fleet to a modern management system. Today, in Europe, bus fleet management is handled entirely from a central dispatch center.
In this setup, the movement of buses is systematically monitored and controlled in real-time. This centralized approach allows for the precise regulation of bus traffic and the intervals between vehicles, ensuring a reliable and efficient service for passengers.
Creating a modern organizational structure, receiving and processing all operational and technical data in real-time, and transitioning to other advanced management systems allows for the maximum elimination of errors. In today’s modern world, bus companies almost everywhere have been handed over to private companies for management. This method has proven more effective, significantly increasing service quality while simultaneously reducing costs.
A modern city is unimaginable today without electric buses. We believe that a few-kilometer stretch of road can be found in our city for a small number of autonomous electric buses, which, though few, are so essential for the city’s modern image.
We have connections with companies that operate this type of transport and possess extensive experience. Environmentally friendly and silent transport will grace our city and significantly contribute to the popularization of electric transport among the population.
Implementing the measures we have listed above will significantly contribute to the development of municipal transport in Tbilisi. It will improve the quality of service for the population, reduce traffic congestion, and make our city ecologically cleaner. Together, we must build the Tbilisi of the future and the Georgia of the future—a nation that stands alongside European states in its level of development.
Giorgi Kishmaria
