Stockholm officials are expanding a car-free initiative to a new neighborhood this summer, building on a successful pilot program in the city center. The move underscores a growing trend in urban planning toward pedestrian-friendly spaces and reduced vehicle traffic.
Hornsgatan, on the Södermalm island, will be closed to vehicles during four weekends this year: June 13-14, July 18-19, September 19-20 and October 3-4. The closures, between Torkel Knutssongatan and Blecktornsgränd, will create space for benches, plants, street food vendors, and other activities.
“many Stockholmers long for places where we can escape engine noise and exhaust fumes,” said Lars Strömgren, the city’s traffic commissioner, in a statement. “This summer, it’s Södermalm’s turn to enjoy car-free freedom.”
Buses that normally travel along the affected stretch of Hornsgatan will be temporarily rerouted during the closures. The street will be prepared for pedestrian use starting at 10 p.m. On Fridays and will reopen to vehicle traffic by 5 a.m. On Mondays.
The initiative follows a similar program on Sveavägen in central Stockholm, which has temporarily been car-free on several weekends. Sveavägen has also undergone permanent changes, with the number of traffic lanes reduced from four to two to make room for wider bike lanes and sidewalks.
