Parisians Approve Plan to Pedestrianize 500 More Streets
The nonbinding referendum passed with 65.96% support but saw record-low turnout of just 4%, raising questions about its legitimacy and feasibility.
- The referendum will expand pedestrianized streets in Paris to 700, representing about one-tenth of the city's roads.
- Only 4% of eligible voters participated, marking the lowest turnout for a Paris municipal referendum to date.
- The plan includes removing 10,000 additional parking spots and creating 'garden roads' within 300 meters of every Parisian's home.
- Critics argue the referendum lacked transparency on costs, mobility impacts, and specific implementation details.
- Consultations and feasibility studies will determine which streets will be transformed over the next three years.