Parking restrictions in central Bucharest

Summary

In response to the rising numbers of private cars, the historical city centre was selected as the starting point for the implementation of an urban parking strategy combining parking restrictions and the provision of parking facilities.

Implementing sustainable mobility

Since the beginning of the 1990s, the number of private cars has risen dramatically in Bucharest, giving rise to many traffic-related problems. In 2000, for example, according to the Bucharest Transport Master Plan, more than 9,000 vehicles were parked on the street in the central area. On-street parking in the city centre was contributing to congestion and leading to longer transit times and high levels of traffic-related pollution. In addition, access by emergency vehicles and freight deliveries were being obstructed.

The measure was therefore aimed at reducing congestion, promoting the use of public transport by constructing parking facilities and restricting on-street parking, and introducing access restrictions to the historical city centre.

Progress

A 1,000-space multi-storey car park was constructed as an alternative to further car access restrictions. It integrates commercial spaces and links with public transport services. It also offers a detailed parking information system. 

Outcomes

On-street parking was banned in the city centre and traffic flow was improved in the neighbouring area. The public-private partnership approach employed for the construction and operation of the parking facility proved it to be a viable alternative for financing and implementing urban development projects.