Time period
“Rues aux écoles” & CAUE de Paris – School Streets Paris
- France Paris
Summary
Initially piloted during the easing of COVID 19 lockdowns to reduce pollution and improve air quality, the initiative has expanded into a city wide strategy that transforms streets around schools into safer, greener, and more comfortable public spaces for children, families, and local communities.
The Rues aux Écoles pedestrianises streets—either fully or through low traffic shared use—reclaiming space from cars and reimagining opportunities for play, social interaction, and everyday use. A strong participatory component, supported by organisations such as CAUE Paris (Conseil d'architecture, d'urbanisme et de l'environnement), engages school communities through workshops, co design of urban interventions, and awareness activities.
By 2025, over 300 streets—around half of the city’s primary schools—had been transformed. The programme supports active mobility, health, and children’s autonomy, while fostering more inclusive and sustainable urban environments.
Key aspects
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Reclaiming school streets as child friendly public space
Transforms car dominated streets into safe environments for play, mobility, and everyday social life. -
Participatory co design and community engagement
Involves school communities, children, and local actors through workshops, co design, and awareness activities. -
Environmental and urban quality improvement
Reduces traffic and introduces green areas to improve air quality, enhance climate comfort and wellbeing. -
Strong public support and behavioural shift
According to a survey developed by OpinionWay in 2025 the program is widely supported by residents (81%), including drivers (75%), reinforcing acceptance and long term cultural change