A survey has been conducted for the proposed Cable Car Project in Freetown, marking a significant step towards modernizing the city’s transportation system.
The initiative, introduced by the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, aims to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly in the Central Business District (CBD).
The survey conducted by Plan Home Salone Ltd involved a detailed analysis of vehicle movements and commuter patterns in and around the CBD. The data collected will inform the design and planning phases of the project, ensuring that the cable car system is optimally integrated into the city’s existing infrastructure.
The company expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “We are glad to announce that part of the Cable Car project survey was conducted by Plan Home Salone Ltd.”
The proposed cable car system is seen as a revolutionary approach to tackling the city’s transportation challenges. By providing an alternative mode of transit, the system is expected to enhance mobility and reduce the time spent in traffic, offering a modern solution to Freetown’s growing transportation needs.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr has emphasized the importance of the Cable Car Project as a key component of her administration’s efforts to address Freetown’s urban mobility challenges. “This project is not just about reducing traffic; it’s about reimagining how we move around our city,” the Mayor said in 2022. “The cable car system will not only alleviate congestion but also provide a unique and scenic travel experience for residents and visitors alike.”
The Freetown City Council (FCC) has already secured funding for the full feasibility studies, which were launched in July 2022. This funding, awarded through a competitive process, is supported by the German, French, and UK governments and is being implemented by C40 Cities Finance Facility and GIZ. The feasibility studies are set to examine all aspects of the cable car system, from technical feasibility and environmental impact to economic viability and social benefits.
As part of the ongoing efforts, international experts in cable car systems, including Markus Hagspiel, a renowned Cable Car Ropeway Expert, and Teferra Sileshi from GFA Heat, have been collaborating with local teams in Freetown. These experts are contributing their global experience to ensure that the project meets international standards and best practices.
Additionally, the project has attracted the involvement of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), whose members are providing pro-bono services to design the cable car stations. These stations, where passengers will embark and disembark, are expected to become hubs of mixed-use commercial development, adding further value to the project.