SUMO 2.0 is working to improve sustainable and intermodal mobility across the South Adriatic area, strengthening connections between ports, urban centres and mobility hubs through cleaner, smarter and technologically advanced transport solutions. 

In light of the above, the 2nd Project Meeting in Bar on 9–10 June, hosted by the Lead Partner - Port of Bar, represented an important opportunity for partners to discuss and continue working together on making local mobility systems more accessible, efficient and environmentally sustainable, while addressing common mobility challenges. In the South Adriatic area, fragmented connections between ports and urban areas, the need to improve access to public transport information, limited infrastructure for sustainable transport modes, and the growing demand for cleaner mobility options for passengers, residents and visitors represent common challenges, particularly relevant in port and coastal areas, where transport systems play a key role in supporting local accessibility, tourism flows and daily mobility.

SUMO 2.0 addresses these needs through a coordinated set of pilot actions, confirmed during he meeting in Bar. Through the project, Port of Bar JSC will support the decarbonisation of port operations through the purchase of two battery electric vehicles and the installation of a fast charging station. In Brindisi, STP Brindisi will improve the passenger experience and the intermodal connection between the port, the city centre and the hinterland through smart bus shelters, information poles, in-bus monitors and a ticket vending machine. In the Municipality of Durrës, the project will implement a cycle path to promote low-carbon urban mobility. Finally, in the Municipality of Termoli, two new velostations near the bus station and close to the railway station will strengthen the connection between cycling, public transport, the city centre and the port.

Through the joint technical exchange held in Bar, project partners focused on how to make these solutions effective, visible and useful for local communities, while coordinating the next steps of the project activities. Indeed, the expected result is to turn SUMO 2.0 into tangible improvements on the ground: cleaner port operations, easier access to public transport information, more space for cycling, and stronger links between local mobility services.

The meeting was attended by all project partners, who confirmed their strong commitment to the project and their willingness to continue working together towards the achievement of its objectives. The Project Officer, Francesca Romana Schiavone, also attended the meeting and provided the partnership with useful guidance on project implementation, reporting procedures, administrative and financial management and the correct application of the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Programme rules. 

With a duration of 30 months and a budget of €1,001,035.12, SUMO 2.0 clearly demonstrates that common challenges require joint and coordinated actions. It thus represents a starting point for promoting greener, smarter and more connected territories, reinforcing cross-border cooperation as a key driver for sustainable development in the South Adriatic region.