A Slow Movement

by Rose Linke 

As COVID-19 swept across the globe, cities around the world implemented measures to meet the urgency of the moment. The pandemic coincided with an- other global challenge—our need to greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the consequences of climate change. 

In San Francisco, we saw the introduction of the Slow Streets program. We were not alone—cities across the country (and beyond) started experimenting with both the form and function of their streets. “Stay Healthy Streets” in Seattle, “Active Lanes” in Montréal, “Open Streets” in NYC, “Shared Streets” in Boston, “Corona Cycleways” in Paris—the names may vary from place to place, but the core concept behind these initiatives is the same. 

City streets are a shared commons. They should serve a variety of needs beyond simply moving and storing cars. Can we develop streets for diverse uses through discourse and design? Can these interventions encourage healthier modes of movement to and through neighborhoods, by making people feel safer on foot or bicycle? And maybe most importantly, can our streets bring people together, by giving neighbors a way to feel more connected to the place they inhabit, a chance to get to know one another, and an opportunity to work collectively toward common goals? 

Perhaps I’m a dreamer, but I believe the answer to all of the above questions is, undoubtedly, yes. The Slow Triangle project may have initially been prompted by the Slow Streets program, but it has become something else entirely. More than any particular proposal or plan, the Slow Triangle project is a process—an opportunity for us to work together as a community, to get to know our neighbors, to speak openly about our hopes and our fears, and to find the kind of common ground that can empower change in our neighborhood. 

The more people we have involved in this process, the better. For up- dates and opportunities to engage, reach out to slowtriangle@dtna.org. If you have thoughts on Slow Streets or the Slow Triangle project you can submit for consideration at editor@dtna.org. We would love to include your voice in the conversation! 

• DTNA Slow Triangle Website page
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