Starting in April, Houston will close 2.5 miles of streets to automobile traffic between 11 am and 3 pm. Additional street closures will follow in May.
Dug Begley and Mike Morris report on a pilot program in the city of Houston that will close certain streets to automobile traffic during the day in the hopes of attracting bikers and pedestrian. Mayor Annise Parker is quoted as describing the pilot project as “a way to acquaint ourselves with what is around those streets in a way we don't normally experience it going by car…”
In a separate article, Dan Solomon describes the pilot as “an interesting approach to take in Houston, which isn't necessarily known for its progressive transportation policies.” Solomon also anticipates confusion and frustration on the part of drivers who might be surprised but he temporary closures.
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