Car-Free Day in Bogota

Earlier this month, in Bogota Columbia the streets were overrun with bikers and walkers instead of cars. This is because one day every year in Bogota is designated car-free day. On this day public transportation still operates, but people are encouraged to walk, or bike to work. The roads are closed down so there is plenty of room for bikers. Although it only occurs one day a year, people have noted a significant reduction in noise and air pollution over the course of the 24-hour period. This car-free day, which recently occured for the sixth time, has been praised by environmentalists and emulated by other cities. Of course, one day cannot reverse decades of pollution, but it does remind people once a year that they should consider alternate forms of transportation. I have read that following car-free day there is at least a temporary spike in people riding bikes or taking the bus. I found an interesting blog where people discussed the pros and cons of Colombia's progressive car-free day. The site can be found here. The site also has interesting information about travelling to and living in Colombia and seems to be aimed at younger people...or at least poorer people!