Skip to content

Traffic Calming: Postcards from London

Judging by recent comments from some local pols, you’d think the addition of pedestrian spaces and bikeways in New York City has somehow thrown our streets out of whack. But what would our streets look like if we really did balance everyone’s needs and made them safe and functional for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists?

In this Streetfilm, you’ll see some of the new street designs in London shopping districts and residential neighborhoods. In many cases, these traffic calming treatments — including raised crosswalks, traffic diverters, and chicanes — go further than what we’ve seen in New York City so far. The attention to detail has created a truly balanced street environment, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists while maintaining access for the trucks and cars that need to use the road.

Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.

More from Streetsblog New York City

Friday’s Headlines: Joyful Juneteenth Edition

June 19, 2026

Tree-Mendous: City Officials Must Do More To Create Shady Conditions As Temps Soar

June 18, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines: Nothing But Knicks Edition

June 18, 2026

The Dream: NYPD Says It Will Tow Away Every Car South of Canal at 7 PM Tonight For Knicks Parade

June 17, 2026

‘Pay-to-Play’ Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer Wants to Kill Citizen Idling Enforcement That Protects NYC Air

June 17, 2026
See all posts