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Vilanova uses the Tour to boost cycling in the city
The Tour de France's passage through Vilanova i la Geltrú will not remain just a sporting image to remember. The city has used the momentum of the French race to renew facilities, strengthen educational programmes and bring cycling closer to more residents.
Ayuntamiento has concentrated a large part of its work on Circuito Municipal de Ciclismo Vicenç Iturat, one of the city’s leading spaces for cycling. The site has renewed access points, improved landscaped areas and new features designed to make daily use more comfortable and safe.
New features include 20 municipal bicycles and helmets, wall-mounted parking racks, new benches and litter bins. Seen individually, these are small improvements, but they matter to those using the circuit for training, school activities or introductory sessions.
The work has not finished. Although painting and signalling tasks have been paused because of high temperatures, repairs to the asphalt and perimeter fencing continue. The aim is for the circuit to become safer and host more activities in the coming months.
The plan also provides for lighting improvements, new information signage, more furniture and direct access from rambla dels Països Catalans. In addition, the site will incorporate a specific BTT circuit, shaded areas and new technical features such as a metal ramp or a rocking element.
The commitment is not limited to infrastructure. Vilanova also wants cycling to enter education and daily life more strongly. Pupils in Years 5 and 6 of primary school and ESO are taking part this school year in introductory road-cycling activities, with theoretical and practical sessions on road safety, healthy habits and responsible cycling.
Since May, women over 18 have also had a specific programme combining sessions inside the circuit and road rides. The initiative offers technical support and municipal bicycles, with the idea of making access easier for those who want to start or gain confidence on two wheels.
The calendar will have another highlight on 24 October, with the first edition of “Vilanova amb bicicleta”. The day aims to become an annual event and will bring together a popular ride open to all ages with activities on sustainable mobility, road safety, physical exercise and local heritage.
Circuito Municipal de Ciclismo Vicenç Iturat was already a meeting point for clubs, schools and enthusiasts. With the new improvements, the space aims to have more uses and become a gateway to cycling for people who do not compete but want to get around, learn or share outdoor activity.
The arrival of the Tour has served as a showcase, but the real impact will be measured afterwards. If municipal bicycles are used, if schoolchildren return, if more women feel encouraged to ride on the road and if the circuit comes alive throughout the year, Vilanova will have turned the passage of a major race into something more lasting for the city.