Car-Free Zones Around Schools in Gothenburg Aliterature - and simulation-based study for future implementation of car-free zones around schools

Abstract

This master’s thesis reviews international implementations of car-free zones around schools and assesses how similar measures could be applied at four selected schools in Gothenburg. It examines which interventions have proven effective across differ ent contexts and develops context-sensitive proposals for designing and implementing car-free zones under varying traffic conditions and urban contexts in Gothenburg. The study combines a literature review, interviews, field observations, case studies, and traffic simulations. Experiences from Sweden and other countries are analysed to identify effective implementation strategies, common challenges, and key factors for successful implementation. The literature review and interview indicate that car-free zones can improve traffic safety and promote active travel. However, their effectiveness depends on local condi tions such as road network function, traffic volumes, alternative routes, and stakeholder acceptance. The findings highlight the need for context-specific design, clear regula tions, physical measures to ensure compliance, and complementary safety measures. Four schools in Gothenburg, representing different urban contexts, were selected as case studies. The proposed solutions included permanent road closures for Brunnsboskolan and Långmosseskolan, a time-restricted closure for Kungsladugårdsskolan, and alterna tive safety measures for Brottkärrsskolan. In all cases, complementary safety measures such as improved crossings, speed reduction measures, and designated drop-off areas are proposed. For Kungsladugårdsskolan and Brunnsboskolan, traffic simulation mod els were developed in PTV Vissim to evaluate the impacts of the proposed measures on queue delays, travel times, and level of service (LOS). The most affected streets reached LOSB at Kungsladugårdsskolan and LOS C at Brunnsboskolan, with maximum queue delays of 14.90 and 17.39 s/vehicle, respectively. This indicates that the proposed mea sures can be implemented without major negative effects on the surrounding network. Overall, the thesis provides practical recommendations for implementing car-free zones around schools in Gothenburg and contributes to a broader understanding of how such measures can be adapted to different urban environments.