Dublin Says Goodbye to Through-Traffic, Hello to Greener City Center

Dublin is taking a bold step to combat traffic congestion and air pollution! Starting this year, private cars and commercial trucks will only be allowed downtown if their final destination is there. This means no more just passing through, freeing up space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Two “bus gates” on the River Liffey will block private vehicles, and streets will be redesigned to loop cars back out without entering the core. This plan echoes similar efforts in other European cities and aims to create a “15-minute city” where residents can reach everything by foot or bike.

Public support is overwhelming, with 80% of respondents backing the plan. Even concerns about disrupting historic beer routes haven’t swayed most people. Dublin’s recovery from the pandemic and recent safety concerns also fuel the desire for a more livable city center.

This move paves the way for long-awaited projects like a public square and pedestrianized streets. While car dependency won’t vanish overnight, the plan predicts a significant drop in car usage and pollution.

Dubliners are showing they’re ready for a cleaner, greener city, even if it means giving up convenient drives through town. This could be a model for other cities looking to improve their urban spaces and quality of life.