On Monday, February 3rd, 2025, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) hosted the PACTE+ Academic Workshop on its premises, an inspiring gathering of European cities and organizations dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and sustainable urban development. The workshop brought together most of the consortium such as representatives from the pilot cities of Graz, Limerick, and Fredrikstad, along with key partners like Sport and Citizenship, Evaléo, EFCS, Tafisa, and ECS, to exchange ideas, evaluate progress, and shape the future of active cities.
The day kicked off with a warm welcome and a presentation of the agenda, setting the tone for a collaborative and solution-focused event. At the heart of the discussions was the social impact assessment, a research-tool based method designed to evaluate how initiatives within the PACTE+ project are transforming cities and communities. Developed jointly by TUM and Sport and Citizenship, the methodology combines qualitative and quantitative approaches, including interviews with stakeholders to identify facilitators and barriers, and survey of residents in pilot cities to evaluate their physical activity level. Its purpose is clear: to measure the real-world impact of strategies aimed at increasing physical activity, improving urban mobility, and fostering healthier lifestyles.
Understanding the effectiveness of these strategies is vital for the project’s success. As one participant noted, “Impact assessment is not just about numbers, it’s about understanding the human stories behind the data and using them to make better decisions.”
The morning session showcased the results of this assessment, sparking lively discussions in small groups. Participants dove deep into the findings, debating what worked, what didn’t, and how to address challenges. These exchanges highlighted the diversity of experiences across cities, but also the shared ambition to create environments that prioritize health and well-being.
The afternoon brought a change of pace with an inspiring presentation by Ronald Benke, Pedestrian Traffic Officer for the Department Mobility of the City of Munich. He shared relevant insights with participants into Munich’s Mobility Strategy 2035, a bold vision that aligns closely with the goals of PACTE+. His talk underscored the need for inclusive strategies and proactive stakeholder engagement to navigate potential conflicts and deliver lasting change.
Building on this momentum, participants regrouped to brainstorm actionable recommendations for scaling the project’s impact. Ideas ranged from enhancing inter-city collaboration to embedding active mobility principles into urban planning. The enthusiasm and creativity in these sessions demonstrated the collective commitment to transforming PACTE+ objectives into concrete, scalable solutions.
The role of the Technical University of Munich in this journey cannot be overstated. As a co-creator of the social impact assessment methodology, TUM has played a pivotal role in equipping cities with the tools to evaluate and refine their initiatives. The university’s expertise has been instrumental in linking academic rigor with practical application, ensuring the project is grounded in evidence and real-world impact.
The PACTE+ Academic Workshop was more than a meeting: it was a milestone. By fostering a culture of learning and innovation, it has empowered cities and organizations to push boundaries and create healthier, more active communities. With the insights gained and partnerships strengthened, the path forward for active cities has never been clearer-or more promising.
