Across the world we are witnessing a public health and transit evolution in world cities like Los Angeles. Seoul, London, Paris, and Bogotá are currently expanding and implementing bus-centered transit systems,bike lanes, pedestrian zones and parks while restricting auto. They are enticing millions of commuters out of their cars and reducing air pollution. Here are few examples:

Bogotá

Read the blog here

The Colombian city of Bogotá tackled traffic and air pollution problems in this metropolis of nearly 7 million residents by spearheading a 300-mile system of bus-only lanes, bicycle paths and pedestrian streets that by 2005 dramatically reduced commute times by 32 percent and air pollution by 40 percent. The city also passed a referundum to ban auto during rush hour by 2015.(LA Times, Nov. 8, 2006).

New York City

Read the blog here

In May 2009, New York City implemented the Broadway Boulevard project, which included new pedestrian zones in Times Square, Herald and Greenly Squares,and at Madison Square Park. Despite reclaiming nearly 500,000 ft2 (45,000 m2) of public space from traffic, congestion actually decreased on most surrounding avenues. Traffic injuries fell by 63% and pedestrian injuries fell by 35%.(ITDP)

Seoul

Seoul completely revamped their bus system in 2004, including 119 miles of bus-only lanes, attracting 1 million new passengers, the majority of whom were auto drivers. Seoul's weekly No Driving Day program is improving air quality, congestion, and saving energy. Every year, two million cars stay off the road, having already decreasing traffic volume by 3.7 percent. CO2 vehicle emissions are being reduced by 10 percent (2 million fewer tons of CO2), and delivering annual savings of $50 million in fuel costs. The improved air quality is also improving the health of residents, saving city residents millions of dollars annually in health costs and fewer missed work days(Clinton Climate Initiative).

Paris

Read the blog here

Paris has 59 bus routes throughout the city. 118km of those bus routes are bus only lanes that are physically separated from the rest of traffic by a divider. These lanes are not only for buses, but are used also for taxis and two wheeled vehicles such as bikes and motorcycles. Along the dividers is plenty of parking for two wheeled vehicles. Through these measures, Paris has created many viable alternatives to the automobile.