2024-10-31 14:51:00
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Postponed several times, the implementation of the ZTL is an electoral commitment by the socialist mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, to “free up public space” occupied by cars and reduce pollution.
Paris City Hall published a decree on Thursday establishing a limited traffic zone (ZTL) in the heart of Paris, banning vehicles passing through only the first four arrondissements of the capital. The measure will come into force on Monday, David Belliard, the environmentalist deputy responsible for transport at Paris city hall, told AFP. This area of approximately 5.5 km2 will only be authorized for emergency vehicles, buses, taxis, people with reduced mobility, motorists living or working there and all traffic “destination”that is, those whose departure and arrival points are in the area (for a medical visit, for shopping, for going to the cinema, etc.).
Postponed several times, the establishment of the ZTL is an electoral commitment of the socialist mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, to “freeing public space” occupied by cars and reduce pollution, as several large European cities (Madrid, Milan, Rome, etc.) have done in their central neighborhoods. Since the announcement of the project in May 2021, its perimeter has been the subject of difficult negotiations with the police headquarters, which co-signed the decree published on Thursday. Initially included, the neighborhoods located between Boulevard Saint-Germain and the Seine on the left bank were excluded from the perimeter, as were the Îles de la Cité and Saint-Louis, the high quays of the right bank.
Paris City Hall expects a decline “substantial” of traffic volume in the busiest arteries, with -30% on avenue de l’Opéra and -15% on boulevard de Sébastopol, according to the impact study carried out. A reduction in noise and an improvement in air quality is also expected thanks to the reduction of nitrogen dioxide concentrations (-15% on avenue de l’Opéra and boulevard Henri IV, -10% on Sebastopol Boulevard). The transport and logistics organizations of the Île-de-France, united under the banner of Gatmarif, asked the town hall in mid-September for details on the conditions of access and the presentation of any supporting documents. “There will be a first phase of teaching, before a second phase of control and verbalization” with a system of residence cards and online self-declaration, the municipality specified.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Urban Mobility Expert
Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. We have a special guest with us today, Dr. Pierre Lemoine, an expert in urban mobility and environmental policy. Dr. Lemoine, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Lemoine: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: So, let’s dive into the latest news from Paris. The city is implementing a limited traffic zone (ZTL) in the heart of the capital starting this Monday. Can you explain the implications of this decision?
Dr. Lemoine: Absolutely. The introduction of the ZTL in Paris is a significant step towards reducing vehicle traffic in one of the busiest urban areas of Europe. By restricting access to only essential vehicles—such as emergency services, public transportation, and residents—the city aims to create a healthier environment and promote alternative modes of transport.
Editor: This initiative has been postponed several times. What challenges do you think the Paris administration faced in making this decision?
Dr. Lemoine: There are multiple factors at play. Initially, there would have been political resistance, especially from those who rely on cars for commuting. Additionally, concerns about economic impacts, such as how this might affect local businesses, likely played a role. However, with growing awareness of pollution and climate issues, it seems that the city has finally prioritized public health and environmental sustainability.
Editor: Speaking of priorities, the mayor Anne Hidalgo campaigned on the promise to “free up public space.” How do you think this ZTL aligns with broader trends in urban planning across Europe?
Dr. Lemoine: It is very much aligned with what other major cities, like Madrid, Milan, and Rome, are doing. They have recognized the necessity to reclaim urban spaces from cars to enhance the quality of life for residents. This includes reducing pollution, improving public health, and creating more pedestrian-friendly environments. Paris is setting a precedent for other cities, demonstrating that ambitious urban policies can successfully shift community dynamics.
Editor: The ZTL is an area of about 5.5 km² encompassing the first four arrondissements. How do you think this will affect the daily life of Parisians?
Dr. Lemoine: The most immediate effect will be a noticeable reduction in traffic congestion and pollution levels. Parisians will likely experience cleaner air quality, and it may encourage more people to walk, cycle, or use public transport. However, it’s crucial the city manages the transition effectively and ensures sufficient public transport alternatives are in place for those affected by the traffic restrictions.
Editor: And what about accessibility for those with reduced mobility or local residents? How will the ZTL impact them?
Dr. Lemoine: That’s an important consideration. The fact that the ZTL allows certain vehicles, including those for people with reduced mobility, is vital. The key will be ensuring that these individuals can navigate the city efficiently. Additionally, local residents and businesses need to be engaged throughout the implementation process to address any specific challenges they face.
Editor: what could this implementation mean for the future of urban mobility policy in general?
Dr. Lemoine: If successful, this could spark a trend towards even more ambitious policies in not just Paris, but cities across the globe. As urban areas become more congested and pollution becomes a critical concern, local governments may turn to similar measures to facilitate a shift towards greener, more sustainable urban environments. It’s a pivotal moment in urban mobility policy.
Editor: Dr. Lemoine, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that Paris is embarking on an important journey towards transforming urban life for the better.
Dr. Lemoine: Thank you for having me. I look forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Editor: That concludes our discussion. Stay tuned for more updates on urban policies and their impact at Time.news!
