Cities have an opportunity to make bold changes that would give pedestrians and cyclists the space on streets that they deserve.
"With public transportation ridership cratering, demand for Uber and other ride-hailing services fizzling, and people everywhere looking to get the hell off their couches and feel a little bit of breeze on their skin, the time for cities to take a bold stand against cars and parking is undeniably now," writes Andrew J. Hawkins.
As the coronavirus continues to spread and social distancing becomes more essential, some cities have already taken steps to make streets more available for biking and walking. He points out that interest in car-free streets was growing before the coronavirus crisis started shutting cities down, with projects in New York and San Francisco proving to be popular.
Hawkins argues that the measures taken during this crisis should not be temporary. "The coronavirus pandemic has already changed many of our personal habits related to work and social interaction. It’s an opportunity for a different way of thinking about urban design and planning as well."
Read the full story: There’s no better time for cities to take space away from cars
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority