“We distributed the first bicycles in July last year and, since then, more than 86,000 kilometres have been travelled with our 150 bikes, all of which remain operational,” Lopes told the municipal executive. He added that reported faults had been minor and resolved promptly, ensuring the service continues to run smoothly.

On average, each registered user has cycled around 470 kilometres. The programme currently counts 185 users. Lopes, who oversees mobility, explained that the use of Biclis has helped avoid an estimated 22 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, thanks to reduced reliance on fossil-fuelled vehicles.

The council is awaiting the outcome of a funding application under the Centro 2030 programme, which could provide 44 additional bicycles for the scheme before the end of the year. Plans are also in place to expand docking stations, including at the forthcoming Intermodal Terminal and free peripheral car parks, aiming to make Biclis a practical alternative for those wishing to leave their cars outside the city centre.

However, progress on the Intermodal Terminal, located beside the Dr Magalhães Pessoa Municipal Stadium, has been delayed. Mayor Gonçalo Lopes (PS) acknowledged the setback, noting “significant losses for the municipality and for our mobility strategy.” Initially scheduled for completion in September, the project’s timeline will be revised following discussions with the contractor.

Construction began in November 2024, with an investment of €2.25 million and an expected duration of 270 days. The new terminal will replace the current bus station and feature facilities for 15 buses, administrative offices, a passenger waiting room, a covered square, a taxi rank, Biclis station and integration with Mobilis and Polis routes.

The project stems from the sale of the city’s existing bus terminal, requiring a modern solution to safeguard passenger services.