The Pontevedra model offers the world many interesting benefits to improve people’s lives in terms of urban quality.
Cleaner air
In constant improvement since 2013, according to the most demanding World Health Organization parameters.
Healthier mobility
Up to 67% of the local population chooses to go on foot and 5% uses the bicycle.
Less motorized traffic
Reductions of 30.10% in the city and 70% in the center between 1996 and 2014.
Less fuel consumption
Reductions of 66% in the city and up to 88% in the center. Traffic jams are now rare.
Fewer CO2 emissions
Reductions of 500 kg per person per year.
Less suburbanization
The impact of this phenomenon was reverted: there has been a 33% increase in the local population between 1999 and 2014 in the larger frame of a demographically recessive context.
Fewer traffic-related fines
A citywide speed limit of 30 km/h has drastically reduced this type of sanctions.
More schoolchildren going on foot
Up to 81% of children between the ages of 7 and 12 walk to school, 50% of whom go alone. The city is perfectly safe for unsupervised children to play and run around.
More biodiversity
Pontevedra boasts 223 different species of tree. The presence of otters and macroinvertebrates in the city’s rivers works as an indicator of environmental quality.
Less noise
During the day, children playing and birds chirruping are the dominant sounds. At night, there is silence.
Plural use of public spaces
National and international sports competitions have been held in the pedestrian areas of the city of Pontevedra.
More road safety
A compact, continuous city model has made dramatic traffic accident reductions possible: there have been no traffic related deaths for the last 13 years.
More accessibility
95% of public spaces are accessible.
Identity
City pride has also increased, together with respect for coexistence rules.
More outdoor cafés
Sixfold increase after pedestrianizing.
Lively streets
Urban public spaces are filled with people, not motorized traffic.
Local commerce
Small retailers have joined to create an Urban Shopping Centre.
Fewer conflicts
Pedestrians and cars no longer compete for the same urban spaces.
