Parisians Vote to Expand Car-Free Zones Across 500 Streets

In a recent referendum, Paris residents voted to pedestrianize 500 streets, aiming to enhance green spaces and combat climate change, with Mayor Anne Hidalgo advocating for the initiative as a crucial step towards a more livable city. Despite around two-thirds of the votes cast in favor, only 4% of registered voters participated, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the decision. The plan could lead to the removal of approximately 10,000 parking spaces and is part of Hidalgo's broader vision for a '15-minute city,' where essential resources are within a short reach. Critics argue the initiative may deepen urban-suburban divides, limiting access for those in outer neighborhoods. The city intends to begin consultations on which streets will be affected, but opposition voices have labeled the vote a publicity stunt, highlighting the lack of detailed planning. This referendum marks the third transportation-related vote under Hidalgo, following prior bans on e-scooters and increased parking fees for SUVs.