REPORTAGE
The city of Lyon is embarking on an unprecedented experiment. This Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm, the hypercentre will be closed to cars. For the first time in the area of the peninsula, between the Rhone and Saone, pedestrians will have priority over all other modes of travel, including bicycles and scooters. Some streets are however accessible to vehicles, subject to authorization and with a speed limit of 5km / h.
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An experiment that could become a norm. "Many cities in Europe have implemented this kind of devices, and it has been successful," said David Kimelfeld, president of the metropolis of Lyon. "We will evaluate the impact of these days on air quality, on noise, but also on the turnover of our traders." The neighborhood, located north of Place Bellecour is very busy on Saturdays.
Two test days planned
On the side of local residents, the idea is well accepted to fight against pollution and noise. "It's in the sense of history," responds a resident. "It's a very good idea," adds a resident. "The cars are very difficult in the city center, it will give us more freedom of movement," she said.
Two more days of testing are scheduled for October 12 and 25. The Lyon metropolis wants a daily and lasting implementation of the device. Nevertheless, no decision should be taken before the municipal elections of March 2020.