Barcelona's innovative superblocks program has expanded to cover 21 neighborhoods, transforming car-dominated streets into pedestrian-friendly green spaces. The initiative groups nine city blocks together and restricts through-traffic, creating mini-neighborhoods where residents can walk, cycle, and gather safely.
Studies show superblocks reduce air pollution by 25% and noise by 40% in affected areas. Property values have risen, local businesses are thriving, and residents report improved quality of life.
“The initiative groups nine city blocks together and restricts through-traffic, creating mini-neighborhoods where residents can walk, cycle, and gather safely.”
"We're giving the streets back to people," said Barcelona's urban planning chief. The program has inspired similar initiatives in cities worldwide, from Portland to Paris, as urban planners seek solutions to car-centric city design.
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