TAIEX-REGIO Study Visit between Krakow and Cluj Metropolitan Areas

The knowledge exchange between the Krakow and Cluj Metropolitan Areas began in Krakow Metropolitan Area (April 19-22) and recently concluded in Cluj Metropolitan Area (June 13-14). The visits were facilitated through the TAIEX-REGIO Peer2Peer program and enabled the transfer of know-how and sharing of experiences on how to maximise the impact of EU funds for implementing the projects outlined in their Integrated Urban Development Strategies (IUDS).

During the first day in the Cluj Metropolitan Area, participants covered a range of activities, including presentations on collaboration practices, strategic planning, smart city initiatives, and discussions on decision-making processes for metropolitan-scale projects. Discussions focused on citizen participation and social innovation, the elaboration of the Integrated Urban Development Strategy for the Cluj Metropolitan Area, digital solutions (such as the metropolitan GIS database, developed recently as part of the Functional Areas in the EU project), further delving into the process of developing large-scale metropolitan projects for sustainable mobility (the metro system, metropolitan train and bypass, and blue and green corridor along the Somes river). The participants also allocated time to brainstorm on potential future cooperation opportunities enabled by current and upcoming EU funding calls.

In the second day, participants did a number of site visits, starting with a visit to CREIC, the Regional Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries. This facility showcases cutting-edge laboratories specialising in machine learning & AI, 3d printing, CGI (computer generated imagery) and visual effects, furniture design, testing, and prototyping, along with studios and co-working spaces The laboratories were equipped as part of the Cluj Future of Work project co-funded by the European Commission through Urban Innovative Actions, bringing together a consortium of local actors, including the Cluj Metropolitan Area Association. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to explore neighbourhoods that exemplify the integration of essential services, such as public facilities that cater to the needs of all citizens (e.g., the Gheorgheni Sports Complex). A notable highlight of the day was a visit to the construction site of the project aimed at reactivating the banks of the Somes River, as part of the larger blue-green mobility corridor that will connect three localities in the Cluj Metropolitan Area. This ongoing initiative underscores a strong commitment to sustainable urban development and the improvement of the overall quality of life in the area.

The TAIEX-REGIO Study Visit between Krakow Metropolitan Area and Cluj Metropolitan Area provided a platform for collaboration and sharing experiences, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development and prosperity of both areas.