Parisian mobility policies continue to polarize opinions. Since their implementation, speed limits of 30 km/h in a large part of the capital and 50 km/h on the ring road have fundamentally reshaped the urban landscape and changed habits. These measures taken by the municipality of Anne Hidalgo provoke varied reactions among Parisians, revealed in an Ipsos survey for Le Parisien.
30 km/h in Paris, a measure that finds its audience
With 54% of residents satisfied, the generalized limitation of 30 km/h – in place since August 2021 – enjoys majority support. On this point, young people aged 35 are the most enthusiastic, with 62% of favorable opinions. Often more sensitive to environmental issues, this age group particularly appreciates the benefits of the measure for pedestrians and cyclists. This support decreases among the oldest: only 49% of 35-59 year olds share this opinion.
And support varies significantly depending on partisan sensitivities, revealing a very real ideological divide around mobility. Unsurprisingly, it is the supporters of left-wing parties, especially those close to environmentalists, who are most favorable to this policy. 71% of EELV supporters find the measure satisfactory, like 57% of socialist sympathizers (PS) and 57% of supporters of La France insoumise (LFI).
Conversely, the measure meets a much more reserved echo on the right. Among supporters of the Republicans (LR) and the National Rally (RN), only 40% of those questioned said they were satisfied. As for centrists close to Renaissance, opinions are divided: 44% of them say they are satisfied.
On the ring road, a limitation that struggles to convince
Introduced at the beginning of October, the reduction in the maximum speed on the ring road is less consensual: only 38% of Parisians surveyed say they are satisfied. 28% of residents even say they are “very dissatisfied” with this measure which aims to reduce pollution and improve safety. Once again, young users are much more satisfied than their elders since 45% of those under 35 are enthusiastic, compared to only 32% of those over 60.
Political differences further confirm these differences of opinion. Left-wing supporters support this measure, with 55% in favor. Conversely, only 23% of LR supporters and 22% of RN supporters judge it positively.
The results of the Ipsos survey also show a mixed reception to the other measures put in place by the municipality. 34% of those questioned are satisfied with the decisions concerning parking, and only 29% of Parisians approve of the measures put in place on traffic.
Municipal policies aimed at rebalancing the place of means of transport in Paris are not unanimous either. Around one in two residents believe that reducing car space goes too far. Discontent is particularly marked among those over 60 and political supporters of the right and the center.
On the other hand, 23% of Parisians believe that the town hall is not doing enough to reduce the space given to cars, and 27% are satisfied. Contrasting results and a complex equation to resolve, which should fuel the political debate for a long time to come.
