Unveiling public sentiment: Analyzing commenter feedback on the Zurich E-Bike City research project

Abstract

This study explored public perceptions of an online newspaper article about transitioning Zurich to an E-Bike City (EBC). We employed an inductive qualitative content and thematic analysis of 361 relevant comments posted by 225 contributors. All comments were separated into 969 individual statements which were then coded by the sentiments in each statement as well as general directions towards EBC (391 neutral, 356 positive, and 222 negative). Prominent themes included funding, street space allocation, safety, impacts on tradespeople, access issues and infrastructure. Pearson’s correlations found significant clusters among these key themes, 1.) ETH Zurich researchers being commended and also critiqued for the study concept, 2.) accessibility, tradespeople, people with limited mobility, elderly, and deliveries; 3.) cyclist behavior, following road rules and pedestrians; and 4.) weather, bicycle and new ways of thinking. The research unveils community concerns, expectations, and recommendations, offering insights for policymakers and urban planners. The findings emphasize the need for transparent communication regarding EBC financing, safety-focused road space reallocation, and considerations for tradespeople, the elderly, and those with mobility issues. Addressing these key points in future communications is vital to aligning strategies with public sentiment on sustainable urban transportation initiatives which would need voter support in future referendums.