Why does Bogotá close major roads to cars every Sunday to create car-free streets?
In Bogotá, Colombia, parts of major roads are closed to cars every Sunday and public holiday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
During those hours, the lanes fill with families riding slowly, people walking, runners, rollerbladers, people out with their dogs, snack vendors, and staff in fluorescent vests.
Ciclovía began on December 15, 1974, when residents pushed for city streets that were becoming increasingly car-centered to be used by bicycles and pedestrians as well. In 1976, it became a city-run program.
Today, more than 100 km of road sections turn car-free for several hours each week, and people in Bogotá walk, run, ride bicycles, and buy snacks there.