Any of us who have traveled to Athens the past few years have seen the drastic changes that have taken place in downtown Athens, transforming many former depleted and neglected areas into trendy, popular and pedestiran friendly neighborhoods.
The current mayor of Athens, Nikitas Kaklamanis, has shown immense interest in bringing back citizens to the area, and helping pedestrianize the streets in the historic centre. (Much like what was done on Ermou Street several years ago - and which we LOVE!)
While plans are currently in the works to close down Athinas street to vehicle traffic, the city is also working with citizens to bring them back to the neighborhood by offering them free parking and tax breaks. (Currently only 50 families live in the historic centre - the city wants to increase that to 500.)
DF: The map above highlights Athinas Street that will soon be transfered to pedestrian traffic (in blue). The yellow line is Ermou street which has also been closed to vehicle traffic. What do you think of the increase of pedestrian zones in downtown Athens?
City of Athens
ASTYNET
posted on Wednesday, August 27