From Guadalajara to New York, the Open Streets movement is rapidly gaining pace. But what exactly are Open Streets?
Open Streets or Ciclovias are programs where the streets are opened to people and closed to cars.
People traffic replaces car traffic, and the streets become “paved parks” where people of all ages, abilities, and social, economic, or ethnic background can come out and improve their mental, physical, and emotional health.
Open Streets allow people to walk, bike, dance, skate, and do just about any physical activity on public spaces that are always there but are normally reserved solely for the use of automobiles. An added benefit of Open Streets is that they allow people to discover how easy and convenient it is to reach places by walking and cycling when safe facilities are provided.
There is something so magical and exciting about Open Streets, perhaps because it involves the exploration into a “forbidden” place. It provides a totally different perspective to view and enjoy the city and meet fellow citizens as equals.
More than just fun and games
Open Streets are more than just a time for exercise. They are an entire community building and social engagement exercise in itself. They provide free recreational opportunities and public space for people to meet, interact, and make social connections.
Bogota’s Ciclovia, the original Open Streets which began in the late 1970s, has evolved to become an important part of the city’s culture. As a true testament to the influence of the program many people have even met and fell in love at the Ciclovia.
Who’s doing it?
Today, cities around the world are looking to Bogota and following in their footsteps. Fortunately now there are many great examples to learn from, including many recently implemented programs, in large and small cities, in rich and poor countries.
We have listed several cities that we believe are the leaders in implementing Open Streets. These cities have taken the initiative and it’s quickly becoming an inspiration for the next set of cities looking to start their own. We have provided brief summaries, useful links and unique features of these wonderfully diverse programs from around the world.
If you want more information on Open Streets or “Cilclovias” or you are looking to start a Open Street in your own city please do not hesitate to contact us for more information, resources and contacts at info@8-80cities.org
World Health Day 2010
1000 Cities 1000 Lives was the World Health Organization's World Health Day campaign for 2010. It called on 1000 cities around the world to open their streets to people and close them to cars the week of April 7th - 11th, 2010. 8-80 Cities was pleased to partner with the World Health Organization on this exciting and important endeavour to make cities around the world healthier. These videos were produced for the World Health Day campaign but could be used as a how to guide for any communities interested in creating similar programs.
