On August 30 of this year, a new speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour came into effect in Paris, France. Making streets safer, quieter, and less polluted are among the measure's goals. While it may seem too slow to many, the initiative has been paved gradually. The 30 km/h limit already applied to about 60% of Paris and now extends to cover almost the entire city. In addition, Paris has been implementing measures to restrict car use on certain streets for several years, while simultaneously expanding pedestrian-only zones.
The decision is also supported by a public opinion poll showing that 59% of the population approves of the new speed limit. Deputy Mayor David Belliard told Franceinfo radio that the administration's plan is to encourage walking, cycling, and the use of public transit.
However, major thoroughfares were excluded from the new measure. This is the case for the Champs-Élysées, one of the world's most famous avenues, which retains a 50 km/h limit.
Going Further
With this reduction, Mayor Anne Hidalgo (reelected in 2020) fulfills a campaign promise made in 2014. Hidalgo has championed projects to ban private diesel vehicles, reduce parking spaces, and build new bike lanes. She has even launched a bike-sharing service for children.
Hidalgo has previously stated that “climate change is one of the greatest challenges we face,” while also emphasizing that air pollution causes health issues and deaths, particularly among the most vulnerable populations.
Slowing down car traffic is always a major shift that impacts other modes of transportation. For instance, cyclists can ride more safely, which in turn encourages new cyclists to emerge. It also leads to a reduction in fatal accidents, making the public more willing to occupy the streets and even swap cars for other transit options.
Via CicloVivo.
This article was written by Marcia Sousa. The translation is powered by AI.
