Parisians Cast their Votes on Proposal to Triple Parking Fees for SUVs
Parisians took to the polls on Sunday to vote on a proposal that could significantly increase parking fees for SUVs in the French capital. The initiative, championed by Socialist Mayor Anne Hidalgo, aims to make Paris greener and more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.
Under the proposed plan, parking fees for SUV drivers from out of town would triple. Hidalgo argued that SUVs occupy excessive space on the narrow streets of Paris, contribute to pollution, pose health risks, and are involved in more traffic accidents compared to smaller vehicles. She urged voters to support the measure as a means of reclaiming ownership of the city's streets.
In the city's central districts, known as arrondissements numbered 1 through 11, the new parking fees for non-resident SUVs would start at 18 euros ($19.5) per hour for the first two hours, while smaller cars would pay 6 euros per hour. Subsequently, the fees would increase dramatically. A six-hour stay in an SUV would cost a staggering 225 euros ($243), three times more than smaller vehicles.
In the outer arrondissements, numbered 12 through 20, out-of-town SUV drivers would be charged 12 euros per hour for the first two hours, escalating to 150 euros for a six-hour stay. These fees aim to discourage SUV use and prioritize smaller, more environmentally friendly vehicles.
Only registered Parisian voters were eligible to participate in the mini-referendum. The ballot question posed was, 'For or against the creation of a specific rate for the parking of heavy, bulky, polluting individual cars?'
Voting stations remained open until 7 p.m., and the results were expected to be announced later on Sunday evening.
While the proposal has faced criticism from some SUV owners who believe they are being unfairly targeted, proponents argue that the focus is on streamlining traffic flow, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable modes of transportation within the city.
Mayor Hidalgo has been dedicated to implementing environmental reforms in Paris. In recent years, the city has seen the introduction of bike lanes, pedestrianized areas, and increased public transportation options. These efforts align with her vision of transforming the city into a more sustainable and livable place.
The outcome of the vote will determine whether Parisians support this latest measure to control the presence of SUVs on the city's streets. The result will also shed light on the future direction of Paris in terms of prioritizing sustainable transportation options and combating pollution.
