“a source of anxiety especially for women”

Many projects have been submitted for the Strasbourg participatory budget. Among them, that of a citizen who proposes the installation of phosphorescent street Art paintings in the streets where public lighting is now turned off at night. A proposal whose aim is to strengthen the feeling of security, particularly for women.

Since last March, half of the public lighting in Strasbourg, in Bas-Rhin, has been turned off from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. This decision, which concerns secondary streets, was taken to save energy, with a reduction estimated at 6%.

“I understand the concern for economics, but it’s a step forward, a step back. By going there and talking to people around me, many told me that walking through these dark streets could be a source of anxiety, especially for women. notes Daniel Aaron, a long-time Strasbourg resident.

Based on this observation, he proposed his project “Paths of light”or “Str'Art Light”, to the city's participatory budget. This is a system that allows residents to propose citizen projects. Those deemed feasible after a community study are then put to a vote by residents. The winners are then allocated part of a total investment budget of €2M.

Daniel Aaron's idea? Use phosphorescent paint, which absorbs light energy during the day or that of street lamps after dark, to restore it when placed in complete darkness.

I find it interesting to use the technical project to move things forward.

Daniel Aaron

citizen at the initiative of the “Str’Art Licht” project

“I find it interesting to use the technical project to move things forward. For example, we have a very large university in chemistry with a laboratory that has received many awards. Why not ask her to perfect these paint coatings?” he asks.

According to the phosphorescent street art collective Reskate, which inspired Daniel Aaron and which he believes could be contacted by the town hall, such paintings are already in place in other cities, such as Bayonne in France or Hunger in Spain. However, they are only for decorative purposes.

The Strasbourg resident suggests exploring the idea further by combining business with pleasure, while keeping this street-art spirit that he particularly appreciates. “It’s a brilliant and urban artistic expression to promote, especially since at night, if it’s phosphorescent, it can focus attention on something other than insecurity,” says the entrepreneur coach.

A modern policy that listens to the expectations of residents.

Daniel Aaron

Resident of Strasbourg

His project, like all the others, is now being analyzed by the community in order to verify its admissibility and feasibility. Result in six months, when the voting period opens for citizens. Please note that to be a winner, you must have at least 50 votes.

Daniel Aaron obviously hopes that this idea can come to fruition and welcomes the municipality's initiative. He who describes himself as a citizen “independent of any party but rather critical of the city” is indeed delighted with this “modern policy which listens to the expectations of residents to get the best out of them and promote emulation”.