Tempo 30 is having a hard time in Zurich. This is the finding of the “NZZ” based on a study by the GFS.Bern research institute, which published the paper at Christmas.
From November 24 to December 8, GfS surveyed 3,000 eligible voters in the canton of Zurich through three different channels. Approval for Tempo 30 on major traffic routes is modest.
57 percent against
Citizens were asked if they would be in favor of “More 30 km/h on main roads in towns and villages (instead of 50 km/h)”. According to the survey, 26 percent of the canton of Zurich strongly agree, 16 percent rather agree with the speed reduction. 16 percent disagree, 41 percent strongly disagree.
A large majority of 57 percent is against the new speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour on main roads in residential areas. It is not surprising that the supporters of the Greens are more open than the FDP voters here.
Zurich has become more open
The “NZZ” notes that the canton of Zurich has become more open on the subject of 30 km/h in recent years. And the finding that acceptance in the villages is 45 percent higher than in large agglomerations and cities (41 percent) is described as surprising.
As a result, the 30 km/h discussion does not take place along the traditional division between city and countryside. Some municipalities also want the speed reduction on their main roads.
Brakes due to housing shortage
The discussion about the speed limit of 30 km/h has become more topical now that the association of cities now wants to apply a speed limit of 30 km/h instead of 50 km/h in residential areas, including on main roads. The “NZZ am Sonntag” had made this public. In exceptional cases, however, it must be possible to drive faster. Sound insulation and a housing shortage are reasons for the demand for speed reduction.
There is also a vote on speed in Zurich. In the canton, the SVP and FDP launched an initiative against a nationwide speed limit of 30 km/h and submitted a second referendum calling for speeds of 50 km/h on major traffic routes. Tempo 30 should be possible in exceptional cases. And in the city of Zurich, the SVP has also launched a similar initiative. (pt)