Fast-lane for planning cycling infrastructure: On the effectiveness and efficiency of cycling infrastructure planning processes

Timely development of cycling infrastructure is essential to achieving societal goals such as decarbonisation and cyclist traffic safety. However, delays in infrastructure project completion persist across many planning contexts, partly due to the infrastructure planning processes. This paper addresses the lack of academic research on infrastructure planning process improvement, specifically for cycling infrastructure, by applying a structured, three-step methodology—process mapping, process analysis and improvement proposal—to the case of Canton Zürich, Switzerland. The paper includes mapping the existing cycling infrastructure planning process, identifying process-related challenges using three decision-making criteria (technical readiness, societal consensus, and political-financial prioritisation), and proposing targeted improvements. Key findings highlight the need for timely planning mandates, early-stage cost overviews, and systematic treatment of uncertainty to enhance planning process efficiency. It is argued that these process modifications can accelerate the realisation of cycling infrastructure projects and improve alignment with long-term strategic goals such as achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. By bridging the gap between planning process design and infrastructure outcomes, this study contributes an approach for analysing and improving planning processes. The findings are relevant for infrastructure planners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to support more effective and efficient cycling infrastructure development.