Indeed, motor traffic in Paris isn’t done being a hot topic! After a ring road speed limit of 50 km/h, and sections of highway where the speed has dropped by 20 km/h, a new measure is likely to get people talking. We told you about it a few weeks ago, and it’s finally here! Since Monday, November 4th in the morning, the streets in the center of the capital are undergoing a huge change: the implementation of a limited traffic zone (ZTL). This measure aims to drastically reduce motor vehicle traffic in the first 4 districts of the city. But then, how does it work exactly?
Why ?
On October 31st, just to give us a little thrill...
On Halloween, the City of Paris issued a clear decree: every day, between **350,000 and 550,000 vehicles** pass through the center of Paris, **most of them without stopping**. This situation leads to an increase in **traffic problems**, **[altercations between users](https://www.lebonbon.fr/paris/news/qui-etait-paul-varry-jeune-cycliste-militant-tue-suv-a-paris/)**, and of course, it doesn’t do any good for the planet, to which it was **high time to put an end**.🔴 FLASH - #Paris : La zone à trafic #limité entre en vigueur ce lundi.
— FLASH INFO Ile-de-France (@info_Paris_IDF) November 4, 2024
👉 Objectif : #interdire à tout véhicule de transit de circuler dans le périmètre des Ier, IIe, IIIe et IVe arrondissements. (Lp) #ZTL pic.twitter.com/wTtTPk73CV
That’s why the City Hall has decided to implement a ZTL (limited traffic zone). This is a measure that is quite common in other European countries, especially in several large Italian cities where it has proven to be very effective. In the coming months, the central districts of Paris should see a reduction in noise and environmental pollution, as well as a greater focus on gentle mobility.
Who and where?
For this first implementation, a fairly large area has been defined, thanks to some very symbolic landmarks throughout the city. The Place de la Concorde and Rue Royale to the west. The boulevards of Madeleine, Capucines, Montmartre, and Bonne Nouvelle to the north.
La Zone à trafic limité parisienne ⭕️
Ça y est la ZTL est mise en place… vous étiez au courant ?
Désormais la circulation des véhicules ne faisant que traverser les quatre premiers arrondissements de la capitale est interdite.
La mairie de Paris publie un arrêté instaurant dès… pic.twitter.com/0Dph8ardko
In this large area, only emergency vehicles, rescue services, healthcare professionals, local residents (or workers) in the sector, public transport and rideshare vehicles, vehicles for people with reduced mobility (PRM), and finally delivery services will be allowed to circulate. Or, of course, if you have a reason to be in these streets: medical appointments, restaurants, exhibitions… basically, if you need to stop. Forget about simple crossings; if you feel like driving from Barbès to the Luxembourg Gardens, you'll need to take the long way around.
How?
Although the Paris City Hall's order comes into effect today, it will first initiate a pedagogical period. During this time, which should last between 3 to 6 months, no fines will be issued, as security officers will initially focus on educating the public about the new rules. After this period, the tickets will start coming in the absence of justification. Offenders should then expect to pay €135 to settle their debt with the company.
Pour rouler dans la ZTL à Paris, vous devrez présenter un document dont personne ne peut donner la définition. https://t.co/HXoFFjlNVu
— Raphael Grably (@GrablyR) November 4, 2024
Automatic controls will be put in place thanks to video surveillance and checkpoints. And to avoid paying, you’ll need to have an online proof available, or be ready to show that your visit makes sense: a movie ticket, a restaurant receipt, or a purchase invoice. Now, we just have to see if this new measure will be effective without too much impacting the local life!
