More (Green) Space to Take a Stroll on Streets That Are Now Car-Free

Ten streets have become car-free in Montreal, Canada, to promote various pedestrian-friendly activities.

“The spectacle of one major street without cars, let alone 10, has left certain visitors from the rest of Canada marveling at Montreal’s ambition,” writes the Globe.

Four years ago, Montreal turned a busy 2.5-kilometer downtown street car-free for the summer. On a small budget, the city was able to transform the avenue by repurposing old church pews and ski lift chairs. Flowers and vegetable gardens cover former parking spaces, and art installations and street performances are a common sight. It is a “daily festival” says the Globe, “with thick crowds almost around the clock, shopping, wandering, packing private patios.” The success of this one street inspired the city to transform nine other streets car-free this summer, with the hope that more people will walk and cycle – supporting both the environment and the physical and mental well-being of locals.