Coastal Strip to open up to pedestrians on Sundays

On the last Sunday of every month, the Coastal Strip will turn into a type of family recreation center. The project, called 'La Cinta Viva', will be organized by the Ministry of Public Works (MOP). Its first phase will be developed on the busy stretch of road that goes from the Seafood Market to the Paitilla area.

According to MOP minister Jaime Ford, this project will start on Sunday, January 27 and its aim is to provide people living in the capital city with a place for sport, culture and health.

Automobile traffic will be blocked to give pedestrians the run of the road on this 15 kilometer section of the Coastal Strip from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

Ford mentioned that the first event this Sunday will include running and biking races and live music.

MANY BENEFITS

Architect and urbanist Álvaro Uribe upholds the initiative of turning the Coastal Strip into a pedestrian street, as it is a way to give back to the citizens the public spaces occupied by vehicles, at least for a few hours.

According to the expert, capital cities in countries like Colombia, Peru and Chile have already launched similar projects, with which proper planning could extend into densely populated areas.