Colonial City implements traffic calming plan: Improvement or inconvenience?
The Colonial City of Santo Domingo is experiencing a significant change in its mobility. Starting this Monday, August 17, the Traffic Calming Pilot Plan was launched, an initiative promoted by the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant) in conjunction with the National District City Hall, Digesett, and other key entities for the development of the historic center.
The main objective of this project is to transform the road dynamics of the area, reducing congestion and preventing the historic heart of the city from being used as a fast transit route or shortcut. With this measure, the goal is to prioritize the well-being of pedestrians, residents, merchants, and tourists who visit this iconic sector.
Divided opinions regarding the new measure
The implementation of these access controls has generated diverse reactions among citizens. On one hand, pedestrians have expressed their satisfaction, arguing that the vehicular restriction provides greater safety and tranquility when walking through the colonial streets.
A very feasible measure. Now one will be able to walk more calmly. You will be able to see motorcyclists from afar. Padre Billini Street, by being closed, will allow ambulances to arrive faster when they come with patients. That measure is excellent.
Feliz Sosa, resident of the area.
However, the transport sector has expressed concern. Some drivers believe that the restrictions unnecessarily limit circulation, arguing that the current dynamics of the historic center could be negatively affected by the new mandatory detours.
Mobility plan details
- Scope: The measure is permanent and will be applied every day of the week in the so-called Cathedral Polygon.
- Perimeter: It covers the area between the streets Arzobispo Meriño (west), Padre Billini (south), and Las Damas (east).
- Enabled access points: Drivers will be able to enter through the northern part of Arzobispo Meriño street, using the Palo Hincado, Juan Isidro Pérez roads, or from Mella Avenue.
- Specific restrictions: Access through Padre Billini street has been prohibited; at this point, controls force drivers to turn right upon reaching the intersection with Arzobispo Meriño street.
Alofoke Deportes will continue to monitor the impact of this measure on the daily life of the Colonial City, evaluating whether the plan effectively achieves its goal of making the historic center a safer and more livable space for everyone.
