More cycling? It starts with us!
Published on November 4, 2025What's needed to make mobility smarter, healthier, and more sustainable? Gerard Korsten knows exactly: the bicycle! As a policy officer for traffic and transport at the municipality of Eersel, he's been working for twelve years to promote increased bicycle use, among other things. And he believes that starts close to home. Literally, in his own town hall.
You're outside, you get fresh air, and you avoid the traffic. Especially during rush hour, that's a relief. Plus, the time is often shorter, and you see the most beautiful places. And it's cheaper, too. According to Gerard Korsten, cycling has nothing but advantages. "I enjoy cycling myself, both recreationally and to work. I carry that love of cycling into my work."
It starts with ourselves
That's clearly visible. Together with his colleague Victor Frijns, Gerard is involved in everything related to mobility. "That includes encouraging people to leave their cars at home more often. It started with us: we actively promoted cycling in our town hall. Successfully, because we now have a great group of cyclists and the bike shed has even been expanded. I think that's great to see. Also because colleagues are now experiencing what I've known for a long time: if you cycle more often, you feel fitter, both physically and mentally. I hardly use the car myself anymore, only when absolutely necessary."
Working together to create movement
To give motivation an extra boost, the municipality of Eersel recently participated in the "Da's zo gefietst" (That's how you cycle) challenge during Brainport Bike Week. "Such a great initiative," says Gerard. "The people participating became really enthusiastic. I was too; you just want to do those extra kilometers. Whether it directly results in more cyclists, I don't know. But it's about raising awareness. One action doesn't change everything, but together they create momentum. We'll definitely participate again next year. It's a long-term thing, but we've got the courage!"
The bicycle as a habit
What does Gerard think is needed to get more residents cycling? "Good incentives and cycling facilities. Think of spacious bicycle parking facilities with charging stations and attractive cycling routes where you can cycle freely. It has to be fun and easy; then the rest will follow automatically. Cycling keeps everything moving, including a municipality. How great would it be if that became even more of a habit!?"
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