Sir,

Thank you for your suggestion, which we have taken note of. In this regard, we would like to provide you with the following response.

The City aims to make the streets more than just places to pass through and is committed to providing new spaces for social interaction. It has therefore continued to enhance these living spaces both in the city center and in the neighborhoods. The development of an active mobility policy is also central to this legislative term, which aims to provide safe, comfortable, and peaceful mobility conditions, while ensuring their sustainability and compatibility with a city on a human scale. Mobility Week is an opportunity to share this vision and to present current and upcoming projects. It is also a chance to come together, enjoy friendly moments in our neighborhoods, and turn the streets into living spaces.

Streets—and public spaces more broadly—are the focal point for a multitude of uses and expectations. We move through them, stop there, meet others there, and switch modes of transportation there. Car-Free Day provides a time and place to encourage Lausanne residents to reflect on the uses of public space and mobility. Organized as part of European Mobility Week, this annual event takes place on a Sunday in September. Finally, the activities offered during the event are free and open to everyone.

Since 2019, the City has chosen to involve neighborhood associations in this event by offering them the opportunity to close a street in their neighborhood. This approach allows residents to truly take ownership of the space, as they are in charge of the day’s program of activities. This is an opportunity for them to organize a neighborhood festival as well as activities centered on the theme of active mobility (bike repair workshops, obstacle courses, etc.).

Finally, you will also find the response to Ms. Céline Misiego’s motion titled “Where Have the Car-Free Days Gone?” as part of Preliminary Report No. 2018/26: https://www.lausanne.ch/apps/actualites/?actu_id=47450