ERDF 183: Vertical Connection - Better accessibility through innovative and cleaner transport

The project has provided a greater access between Valletta’s Waterfront and the heart of the City through a vertical link, consequently encouraging a modal shift towards non-car modes when commuting to Valletta. This project sustains the projects already underway and encourage further public and private investment in the area. It also sustains ancillary systems such as the proposed shuttle bus service, electric taxis, rapid sea ferries, the new terminal and the ‘park and ride’ scheme. Therefore, it provides an integrated transport system to reduce the traffic congestion in and around Valletta.

The project is designed to provide greater access between Valletta's waterfront and the heart of the City through a vertical link. Hence encourage a modal shift towards non-car modes when commuting to Valletta. In general terms the objectives are:1. To provide a vertical link to enhance connectivity between the existing and proposed activities on the Valletta and Cottonera waterfronts;2. Catalyse through this vertical connectivity a comprehensive transport strategy for Valletta integrating multi-modal systems3. Bring eco-friendly traffic and promote new technology4. Encourage travel behaviour change (modal-shift)5. Provide direct and inviting links to public transport nodes and other different travel modes6. Alleviate traffic congestion on Valletta Peninsula7. Complement and support the development of other projects in the immediate context

The direct beneficiaries of the project include:1. The local population of Valletta and Grand Harbour area with a possible of increased mobility and accessibility even directed at persons with impairment. The Lifts will interconnect various transit nodes from the centre of Valletta to the waterfront.2. In the longer term after the full implementation of the transit strategy in the harbour are including the implementation of the Ferries, the public transport system upgrade and the electric mini cabs and the CVA the 13 local councils in the harbour area will benefit with more e accessible transit and more rapid systems with shorter journey times.3. The other beneficiaries include the international tourist and enhancing their journey through modal spilt and make the day stay from Cruise Liners more sustainable. The attractive Vertical connection and comfort may entice further Cruise Liner travellers to disembark and visit the City or the environs.

The project is designed to provide greater access between Valletta's waterfront and the heart of the City through a vertical link. With the redevelopment of the Location of Valletta's main area will have a new lease of life. This new project would sustain the projects already underway and encourage further public and private investment in the area. It would sustain ancillary operational transit systems. It will spur the urban resistance more sustainable and make Valletta a more attractive City for living and enhance the quality of life of the existing local and working community.