Linköping was namned the Bicycle city in 2002.The prize was awarded by the Cykelfrämjandet association because “Linköping has, in an excellent way, through its design and actions, developed cycle routes. The cycle routes are a strategic part of Linköping’s broad and determined programme to improve the city environment and adapt the infrastructure to suit bicycles and thus allow more to discover and enjoy its advantages.”

Over the last few years approximately 80 million SEK have been invested in improving and making the cycle network more connected. A number of road signs aimed specifically at cyclists using a white and red design with a bicycle symbol at the top of the signpost. The intention is to provide an unbroken and safe cycle path network in the city incorporating overpasses and green cycle paths.

Cycle city becomes cycle municipality

Work is in progress to further develop Linköping as a cycle city – now using the name cycle municipality. A new cycle plan (stage 1) was approved in 2005 covering a short to medium time perspective of 3-5 years. At the moment the municipality is working on stage 2 which involves the direction for developing cycle amenities in Linköping over a period of time exceeding 5 years. The municipality is still investing a great deal in cycle transport – including the latest plan which involves increasing the area covered during the winter which will be cleared of snow and salted. The number of cycle paths built from year to year will vary depending on the whether the municipality is involved in major projects.