Suwon Designated City to Operate 'Car-Free Street' in Haenggung-dong Every Saturday Starting in May

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Jung Jun-sung] Starting in May, approximately 220 meters from Haeseokmun-ro 34 to Shinpung-ro 47 in Haenggung-dong, Suwon Designated City will be operated as a ‘car-free street’ every Saturday.

Operating hours are from 1 PM to 5 PM every Saturday. Vehicle traffic will be restricted during these hours to create a pedestrian-focused street where citizens can walk safely and comfortably.

This regular operation was implemented following a pilot program in March and April, survey conducted on Suwon City's civic participation platform ‘Saebit Talk Talk’, and ongoing consultations with the residents' autonomous council and merchants association.

In the survey, over 80% of 1,980 respondents were satisfied with the operation and responded that continuous operation is necessary.

Additionally, through consultation with the residents' autonomous council and merchants association, the operating section was adjusted to 220 meters, and agreement was reached on the method of operating every Saturday, reflecting community opinion.

The city will deploy on-site management personnel to systematically implement traffic control and pedestrian safety management. Traffic controllers will be stationed at intersection sections to restrict outside vehicle traffic. Emergency vehicles and resident vehicles will be allowed to pass at minimum levels.

In addition, the city plans to operate a shared parking lot accommodating approximately 100 vehicles in cooperation with Samil Industrial High School, and will conduct additional consultations with nearby schools to reduce parking inconvenience for visitors.

Going forward, the city plans to regularly consult with the residents' autonomous council and merchants association to monitor operational results and develop improvement measures for creating a sustainable pedestrian environment.

A city official said, “The operation of the car-free street is the result of continuous effort and consultation by residents and merchants,” and added, “We will strive to establish a pedestrian culture where the alleyway atmosphere of Haenggung-dong can be safely enjoyed.”