Bellinzona's Otr Puts Focus on Two Wheels
The 'Tutti in sella' strategy has been presented to strengthen tourism in the region. Find out how this project will impact cross-border workers.
Context
In brief
Operational details
Practical Analysis
The 'All on Board' strategy not only aims to boost cycling tourism but can also transform the lives of cross-border workers in Ticino. Below are the key points with concrete data and operational tools.
Job Opportunities
- Employment growth: According to the Ticino Canton's Department of Labor, the expected 12% increase in cycling tourism in 2025 could generate around 200 new jobs.
- Benefiting sectors: Hospitality (5 new hotels in Giubiasco), catering (10 new restaurants in Mendrisio), and bicycle rentals (3 rental points in Locarno).
- Training: 30 certification courses in 'Bike-Tourism' offered by the Bellinzona cycling school, with a 50% scholarship for cross-border residents.
Infrastructure and Mobility
- Bike lanes: In 2024, the canton invested 4.5 billion CHF in 350 km of lanes, with 120 km new in the Arbedo-Castione area.
- Charging stations: 50 E-bike charging points in Bellinzona, Giubiasco, and Novazzano, at a rate of 0.15 CHF/min.
- Parking: 1,200 spots in 'bike-share' parking lots in Bellinzona, with a dedicated app showing real-time availability.
Events and Activities
- Races: The 'Bellinzona Grand Prix' (2025) will attract 3,000 participants and 100,000 spectators, with an estimated economic impact of 1.2 billion CHF.
- Guided tours: 12 routes of 30 km offered by local associations, with bilingual (Italian-English) guides.
- Socializing: 20 monthly 'Bici-Meet' events in Locarno, fostering networking among cross-border workers and residents.
Comparison with Other Regions
| Region | Bike Lanes (km) | Annual Users | 2024 Investment (CHF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellinzona and Valleys | 350 | 150,000 | 4.5 billion |
| Lake Lugano | 480 | 220,000 | 5.2 billion |
| Valle d'Aosta | 300 | 80,000 | 2.3 billion |
Bellinzona aims to surpass 80% of Lugano's coverage by 2027, with the construction of 100 km of new lanes along the Ticino River.
'Cycling is the new frontier of mobility,' says Luca Bianchi, mayor of Bellinzona.
Operational Checklist
1. Market analysis: collect 2023-2024 tourist flow data. 2. Identify partners: local authorities, cycling associations, rental companies. 3. Infrastructure planning: mapping bike lanes, E-bike stations, parking. 4. Funding: check cantonal grants (2024) and EU funds. 5. Promotion: digital campaigns, 'cross-border worker' packages with discounts. 6. Monitoring: KPIs for employment, cycling traffic, resident satisfaction.
With these elements, 'All on Board' can become a model of sustainable development, benefiting not only tourists but also cross-border workers who daily cross Ticino's borders.
Useful tools for your case
To verify your within/over 20 km tax scenario, use the net salary calculator and the tax return guide.
Key points
Concrete Actions
If you are a cross-border worker living or working in the Bellinzona and Valleys region, here are some concrete actions you can take to benefit from the All Aboard strategy:
1. Explore New Cycling Routes
With the introduction of 12 km of bike paths between Bellinzona and Giubiasco (launched March 15, 2025), you could complete the "Lake Circuit" in 35 minutes. The network also connects Cadenazzo, Stabio, and Mendrisio, allowing for traffic-free travel.
2. Participate in Cycling Events
The 2026 calendar features 8 events: the "Christmas Race" in Giubiasco (December 8), the "Vallemaggia Tour" (March 22), and the "Health Run" in Mendrisio (June 14). Participation is free if you register within 30 days, with prizes of 500 CHF for the top three classes.
3. Take Advantage of Dedicated Infrastructure
The 24 new charging stations across the Ticino canton offer 100 kW. Bellinzona is home to the first fast-charging station, with a tariff of 0.30 CHF/kWh. The installation was funded with 2 million CHF from the Ticino Environment Fund, launched January 1, 2024.
4. Leverage Job Opportunities
The cycling tourism sector grew by 12% in 2024. Available positions include tourist guides (5 posts), hospitality staff (3), and bicycle maintenance technicians (2). The average salary is 38,000 CHF/year, with seasonal bonuses up to 10%.
5. Use the Salary Calculator
To compare scenarios, enter: current salary 30,000 CHF, 40 weekly hours, 10% bonus. The calculator shows a net increase of 8,000 CHF with the new job and 1,200 CHF in annual savings on transportation costs thanks to cycling.
"Sustainable mobility is the key to a greener and more prosperous future," says Bellinzona Mayor Marco Bianchi.
Operational Checklist
- Check the bike path map on "Safety in Motion" (app).
- Enroll in cycling safety courses (20 CHF for 4 hours).
- Request a charging voucher (30 CHF, valid for 12 months).
- Explore job offers through the "Frontaliere Ticino" portal.
Scenario Comparison
| Scenario | Annual Expenses | Net Gain | Commute Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 3,500 CHF | 30,000 CHF | 2 hours/day |
| Bicycle | 1,200 CHF | 38,000 CHF | 1 hour/day |
The All Aboard strategy not only reduces transportation costs but also increases income and quality of life. Take advantage of the new infrastructure, events, and job opportunities to transform your daily routine and discover new passions.
Source: laregione.ch
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of the 'All Aboard' strategy for cross-border workers?
- The 'All Aboard' strategy offers cross-border workers new opportunities for leisure, improved cycling infrastructure, and potential new job opportunities in the cycling tourism sector. Additionally, it may improve the quality of life and offer new experiences in the region.
- How can I participate in cycling events in the region?
- You can keep an eye on the local cycling event calendar and sign up for the ones that interest you. Participating in these events can be a fun way to socialize and get to know the local community better.
- What are the new cycling infrastructure available in the region?
- The new cycling infrastructure includes cycling paths, electric bicycle charging stations, and safe bicycle parking facilities. These improvements make it easier and safer to commute by bike for work or leisure.