Lille is testing safe school streets

NewsSchooling

Eight schools were chosen to test the safe school street, at the request of parents and teachers. The idea of the project is to close the streets to automobile traffic and motorized two-wheelers, during entry and exit times in schools. The city allows other soft modes of transportation during the trial period. Families can thus opt for walking, cycling or scootering, in complete safety on the way to school.

Initially, the two schools Michelet in the Center and Desbordes Valmore Jaurès in Bois Blancs are experimenting with the system after the autumn holidays. Temporary barriers are installed on the targeted roads from 8.15 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. and from 4.15 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. The agents are present to enforce, and explain it if necessary, this new traffic regulation.

Road safety awareness continues after the autumn holidays for six other streets, with adults and children from other schools that will follow into early 2021

Benefits for all

In these school streets, children and parents are therefore adopting new habits to reach their school.

Other benefits of calm street traffic are also highlighted such as reduced noise, the practice of a physical activity beneficial to health, or the free play of children on the journey. All of the schools in Lille have been equipped with scooters and/or bicycles.

The residents will be allowed to enter or leave the street in their vehicle at low speed by filling out the form and obtaining the special permit. An exception is of course provided for emergency and public utility services.