Saint-Ouen reduces city traffic speed to 30 km/h

LMotorists will have to slow down. In Saint-Ouen, the traffic speed limit increases to 30 km/h throughout the city, with the exception of three departmental axes: the RD1, boulevard Victor Hugo/Jean-Jaurès and avenue Michelet. The measure was adopted and the municipal decree signed on December 12, during an extraordinary municipal council devoted to “ to the calming and sharing of public space “. An extraordinary municipal council following the death of Paul Varry, this committed cyclist who resided in the town, hit by a motorist while he was cycling in the streets of the VIII^e district of Paris, on October 15.

By reducing the speed limit, the City wishes to promote safe travel for all users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians. “ This measure is intended to improve the sharing of public space and peaceful cohabitation between different users – motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. », justifies the municipality which plans other actions to strengthen the safety of cyclists, scooter users and pedestrians. In particular prevention actions via awareness workshops or educational activities on “knowing how to ride”. Prevention but also sanction since “ the municipal police and the national police will strengthen the reporting of offenses endangering pedestrians and cyclists », warns the municipality. New obligations will also apply to companies carrying out work in public spaces. For example, they will have to systematically set up a temporary bike lane to secure the circulation of cyclists.

« Ecological and public health issue », the development of soft mobility is one of the town hall’s objectives. This involves structuring developments aimed at offering users a secure cycling network or even the multiplication of Vélib’ stations, with the creation of three new stations planned for 2025-2026. Stations which will complement the 8 opened since 2020. The creation of new bicycle parking spaces is also planned in all neighborhoods. Finally, a “ special effort » will focus on the maintenance of cycle paths and sidewalks to guarantee “ safe and comfortable use “. And the town has already come a long way. “ In 2020, the City had 800 meters of cycle paths and zero Vélib’ stations. Today it has 10 km of cycle paths and 8 Velib’ stations which will be 12 by 2026 », Compares the town hall.