The City of Cape Town is calling for feedback on the second draft of its CBD Mobility and Access Plan which prioritizes access over mobility by proposing a road network that directs vehicular traffic around the CBD with the usage of peripheral parking.

The municipality says that the draft CBD Mobility and Access Plan proposes a shift towards a multi-modal approach to maximise the inner-city’s functional capacity and to meet its economic development needs.

“Given population growth projections, the draft CBD Mobility and Access Plan seeks to optimise existing transport infrastructure,” comments the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas. “… The intention is to create a walking and cycling network that is efficient and well-connected; and integrated and convenient to improve access. Ultimately, those who work and live in the CBD, and visitors, must find it easy to get to their destinations and a pleasure to move through the area.”

The plan identifies routes where public transport will be given priority, proposing to reallocate the street space to prioritise pedestrians, particularly commuters using public transport, cyclists, and activities supporting economic activity. The conflict between vehicular movement and pedestrians would be addressed through superblock as well as traffic calming and control measures at major pedestrian crossings such as those found along Strand Street.

The City says it intends to develop a parking plan for the CBD to facilitate a gradual transition from private vehicle dominance towards a more people-centred environment with the parking plan to elaborate on the provision of park-and-walk facilities on the periphery of the CBD to ensure the decongestion zone becomes a positive experience for moving and dwelling.