Agioi Omologites in Nicosia had a truly special day thanks to the efforts of the local NGO OPU Organisation for Positive Urbanism. It’s a welcoming initiative for residents, cyclists, pedestrians, and families to enjoy.
From morning the streets were lively with activity! It was great to see people of all ages riding their bicycles freely, families strolling hand in hand, and locals engaging in various community-centered events. There’s been great work done organizing. The program aimed to bring people together and make the community sustainable, environmentally conscious, clean, and connected.
Nicosia’s Mayor, Charalambos Prountzos, also joined the event with great enthusiasm. There was something for everyone to enjoy! The streets were filled with the sounds of residents engaging in a car free environment. One of the parents said; “these type of initiatives should become a community tradition, because it will help us discover better our neighborhoods in Nicosia and generally in Cyprus, a more promising and positive way for residents to enjoy their environment”. There were art and play moments all over the place, interaction and uninhibited connections that made everyone feel content on the occasion. It felts as if the somewhat avoided Agioi Omologites old neighborhood felt vibrant again. These types of initiatives also awaken the feeling of belonging towards our Cypriot traditional values, neighborhoods, and all that make up our urban identity.
The car-free day revitalized the Agioi Omologites, but it also reinforced the idea that community-driven events can pave the way for a more sustainable future. There were free scooters from Bolt Cyprus & bikes from @nextbike_cyprus.
Cyprus Public Transport, a generous supporter of the Car-Free Day event, provided free e-rides from the event’s peripheral parking lots to the heart of the activities. The event was also supported by the Nicosia Municipality and Embassy of the Netherlands in Cyprus.
#europeanmobilityweek #cpcc #sustainablemobility #carfreeday #sharedpublicspace
All images and information courtesy of OPU Collective: https://www.facebook.com/opucollective
