Paris's green revolution. City earmarks 247 acres as pedestrian-only zones by 2030

Until recently, Paris held the ominous record as one of the world's most congested cities. As Reuters reported in 2017, the average speed of cars in the city was a meager 9 mph, leading to continuous high pollution levels.

Since 2017, the Parisian authorities have been actively battling the incessant car congestion plaguing the city. From October 2018, on the first Sunday of every month, four core districts of the capital are closed to car traffic. The "Paris Respire" (Paris Breathes) policy is implemented in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th arrondissements of Paris, creating a car-free sanctuary for pedestrians in the city center.

In addition, about 100 streets in various districts are permanently closed to cars. These include areas near noteworthy landmarks such as the Des Halles region, home to Centre Pompidou, the renowned contemporary art museum, the surrounding region of Notre-Dame Cathedral, Place de la Republique and Place de la Bastille.

David Belliard, Deputy Mayor for Public Space and Mobility, announced a colossal investment plan of 300 million euros. The aim is to transform an area of over 247 acres into zones exclusively devoted to pedestrians by 2030.

Belliard unveiled on November 17th that the removal of bike paths from sidewalks and their relocation to the streets is nearing completion. Side streets flanking the Parisian boulevards and avenues, which have until now functioned as outdoor parking lots, will soon block out cars for an approximate distance of 7.5 miles.

The green light duration for pedestrians at the busiest intersections will be extended, with the average pace of the elderly serving as the basis for timing. A vote is also imminent at the Paris City Hall to hike up parking fees for SUV drivers.