Works Begin to Pedestrianize Zarugalde Street in Arrasate

The Arrasate City Council has launched an innovative tactical urbanism intervention to transform Zarugalde street into a safer and more pleasant space for pedestrians.

Generic image of Zarugalde street in Arrasate being transformed for pedestrians, with colorful lines and shapes painted on the ground.
IA

Generic image of Zarugalde street in Arrasate being transformed for pedestrians, with colorful lines and shapes painted on the ground.

The Arrasate City Council has initiated works to pedestrianize Zarugalde street, as part of its Sustainable Mobility Plan, through an innovative tactical urbanism intervention aimed at improving safety and coexistence.

The initial tasks began this Tuesday with the removal of existing bollards on the street, and painting work is scheduled to start on Wednesday. The completion of these tasks is contingent on weather conditions, as rain could extend the duration of the project.
In recent years, residents of Zarugalde street have repeatedly voiced concerns about safety risks due to high vehicle speeds. They have requested a safer environment for pedestrians, particularly to ensure the mobility of the elderly and children. Furthermore, they have highlighted the need for a more tranquil and pleasant space that fosters community and enhances daily life.
The primary goal of this intervention is to pedestrianize the street, providing citizens with safe areas for rest, play, and social interaction. Key changes include:
  • More space for pedestrians: The northern sidewalk will be expanded to allow for free movement.
  • Bicycle lane: A bidirectional bicycle lane will be implemented; shared with vehicles in one direction and exclusive for bicycles in the other.
  • Safety and accessibility: A new pedestrian crossing will be installed, bollards will be removed, and only garage vehicles will be permitted access, which must significantly reduce their speed through various measures.
  • Pleasant spaces: Planters and benches will be placed to create inviting and calm areas for residents.
It is important to note that while general traffic will be restricted, access to garages and passage for emergency vehicles will be guaranteed at all times.
This transformation will be carried out using the concept of tactical urbanism, which involves temporary interventions in public spaces. Instead of costly and permanent construction, paint and urban furniture are used to test proposed designs. To help citizens understand the changes and how to navigate the street, the City Council will use a clear visual code through shapes painted on the ground:
  • Circles (meeting points): Fully painted areas for gathering and socializing.
  • Triangles (vehicle access): Only the perimeter will be painted, marking garage entrances and exits.
  • Lines (movement): Indicate the space gained for pedestrians, where free circulation is allowed.
This intervention is envisioned as a first step to improve citizen safety and comfort. Once completed, an observation process will be conducted with residents to evaluate the transformation. Parking spaces for Zarugalde street residents have been relocated to Otalora street.