Well planned cities are seldom a co-incidence, and realisations of our impact on the environment have pointed out that there exists a need for a highly integrative planning process that is sustainable in nature. This is a necessary step in dealing with the rather complex problems that exist within the realm of Urban Mobility, such as simultaneous management of traffic, parking facilities, citizen health and safety, pollution control etc.A Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan or “SUMP” is a strategic plan, which is designed to satisfy the mobility needs of people and businesses in urban regions, for an improved quality of life. Read more info on why we need sustainable urban mobility planning.
 

Goal

A general goal is to make urban areas more accessible and provide sustainable and high-quality transportation to, through, and within urban areas. SUMPs can be used to measure progress as well.

Vision

SUMPs inherently pertain to long-term strategies for development of urban land areas and the future development of transport and mobility infrastructure and services.
There is also care given to short-term planning and implementation of strategies with parameters such as specific timings for implementation, the division of responsibilities, and resources/finances. They take into consideration the various needs of a well-functioning city and surrounding regions rather than just the municipal administrative region.

Process

The process of developing and implementing a SUMP follows an integrated approach between different levels of government and authorities. To ensure that this integration happens well, appropriate structures and procedures are put in place. SUMPs follow a transparent and participatory approach, where the local authorities are expected to involve relevant stakeholders- citizens and representatives of civil society, and economic actors- in the development and implementation of the plans right from the start and continuing throughout, to ensure a high level of acceptance and support.

Integration

While earlier ways of dealing with these problems were more isolated and addressed a single problem at a time, new strategies that facilitate a shift to altogether sustainable methods and improved transportation modes is taking place, thanks to a broad exchange between stakeholders and planning experts (for example through conferences), at least in the European Union.

Monitoring, Reviewing, Reporting

Appropriate action is expected to be taken as part of SUMPs, to ensure timely access to relevant data and statistics, so that monitoring, reviewing, and reporting allows the plans to be closely monitored. Mechanisms are put in place that ensures the highest quality and complete compliance of individual plans with the requirements set forth by the  concept.
To get these data and statistics, stakeholders rely on “Indicators” as a format for obtaining information.