Paris residents vote to make 500 more streets pedestrian
Though only 4% of the city voters participated in this referendum, no significant opposition against making a city that is extremely pedestrian friendly even more pedestrian friendly. Tempting as it might be to view this as a reflection of “leftist” politics, no doubt exists regarding its being another manifestation of the global movement away from the noise, pollution, inconvenience and nuisance of rampant car culture in cities. In Paris, in particular, pedestrian life that was emphasized during covid lockdowns was reinforced by a magical Olympic experience wherein the entire city became a memorable character in every single sporting event. It is not surprising that people would opt to retain the camaraderie and social connection that car-free streets encourage. Paris is lucky enough to have a superb transportation infrastructure that provides residents with multiple means of getting about town. Absent any significant reduction in mobility, it is obvious that people would prefer to walk, bike or ride subway in order to retain neighborhoods devoid of car noise and pollution. Cities were made for people, after all.
Virtual, but permanent.