Major Cities Are Going To War With Cars

Cities are going in a new direction in terms of travel, putting the focus less on cars. Instead, Cities across the world are moving more towards pedestrian-friendly travel as we move forward. The most recent example of this has been Madrid, which has announced it aims to start the process in 2019.

In an announcement, the Spanish capital made clear its intention to ban cars from its downtown streets. Effectively, this means that by 2019, Madrid will become one of the first cities in Europe to completely pedestrianise its streets. With November seeing this next step come into force.

Madrid is far from the only city to implement pedestrian-friendly policies like this. It stands as only the most recent example for this, an example which is growing constantly.

Major Cities are cutting back on cars

Currently, Madrid aims to be extensive with its changes to its city streets. By 2020, the capital is reclaiming 500 acres of city streets, extensively redesigning 24 of its busiest streets. Across Europe and the world, cities are taking on the same initiative.

Oslo, Norway

The capital of Norway has announced that they aim to make the city a car-free zone by 2019. This ban within the capital would be enforced six-years ahead of its wider plans against congestion. Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives has expressed optimism at Oslo’s move.

“The fact that Oslo is moving forward so rapidly is encouraging, and I think it will be inspiring if they are successful.”

Copenhagen, Denmark

Unlike its counterparts, Denmark has been on a green-travel kick since the 1960s. Encouraging commuters to walk or use a bicycle to get to where they need to go. Copenhagen has over 200 miles of these bicycle paths within the capital, with the 21st century only increasing this scale.

Its latest aim is a part of its commitment to being completely carbon-neutral by 2025. This policy includes the development and expansion of Biking superhighways, of which there are 11 new ones due for completion this year.