‘Summer Streets’ coming to Reykjavik this Sunday
Brightly coloured streets in Reykjavik town centre. Photo: Reykjavik City Council
As in previous years, parts of Reykjavik city centre will be closed off to motor traffic this summer in a council initiative called ‘Summer Streets’.
Starting this Sunday, 1 May, a section of Reykjavik’s main high street Laugavegur – as well as a number of adjacent small streets – will be pedestrianised, with cars unable to drive through or park in them.
The annual initiative – known in Icelandic as Sumargötur – has split opinion in the city ever since it was first tried out. Some complain that businesses lose money because of the scheme, while other think it is the best thing to have happened to the city.
Mayor of Reykjavik opening Summer Streets last year. Photo: Reykjavik City Council
According to Reykjavik City Council, the aim is to “improve access for pedestrians and cyclists to daily life, shopping and services”. A survey conducted last year showed that 74% of respondents were happy with the scheme.
Laugavegur will be painted in happy colours and streets will be decorated with benches and flower pots, according to a Council press release.
Summer Streets will run throughout the summer till 1 October.
Related article:
