As mayor of Bogotá between 1998 and 2001, Enrique Peñalosa ushered in broad improvements to the Colombian capital's public transportation infrastructure with one of the world's most efficient bus rapid transit systems. His administration also pushed to created hundreds of miles of bikeways, pedestrian-only streets, and public parks. Restrictions in private car use in the city have also decreased congestion in the city of more than .5 million people.
In this speech, Peñalosa discusses his experiences in making Bogotá a more transit- and pedestrian-friendly city and how creating great public places is essential to creating great cities. The speech was recorded November 13, 2006 in Los Angeles.
Please note that the audio of the speech is free of charge.
Related Story:
Lessons From Colombia: Ex-Bogotá Mayor Enrique Peñalosa Lectures City Officials On How to Steer a Car-less Future
Los Angeles Downtown News, November 20, 2006
An above-ground solution for Wilshire traffic
Los Angeles Times, November 18, 2006
