Living Car Free - Paris Fighting Cars?

I heard something on the radio about the mayor of Paris becoming very unpopular for encouraging non-auto centric transport in his city. I didn't hear the whole piece but found this link:

http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/article-imprim.php3?id_article=4695

One thing that is a little different is the concept of "green district" within the city. It seems more comprehensive than just closing off some streets to create a shopping mall atmosphere.

I heard something on the radio about the mayor of Paris becoming very unpopular for encouraging non-auto centric transport in his city.

Might have been this piece on NPR:


'Greening' of Paris Rough on Motorists

by Eleanor Beardsley

Weekend Edition Saturday, December 23, 2006 · The mayor of Paris is widening sidewalks and expanding green spaces. Pedestrians may like this new Paris, but it is frustrating to many motorists.

'Greening' of Paris Rough on Motorists (http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6667718)


I have a hard time imagining any American city attempting anything like this.

Well the wife and I just drove there for a few days over the holiday break and I can tell you it wasn't much fun. The motorcyclists splitting lanes were really un-nerving. But if Parisians want more people to use the rail system they'd do very well to add other languages to the ticket machines.
Overall my only real confusion centered around these road signs depicting a burning/exploding car. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to pull over and light my car on fire or if we were entering a "lighting car on fire forbidden zone".

... I may never know.

Well the wife and I just drove there for a few days over the holiday break and I can tell you it wasn't much fun.
Is there still a two way circle in front of the Opera House? Nuttiest traffic pattern I've ever seen.