Traffic Calming Plan to begin in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City on August 17

Santo Domingo.- A Traffic Calming Pilot Plan will begin Monday, August 17, in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City to reduce through traffic, ease congestion and promote a more orderly use of public space.

The initiative responds to requests from residents and businesses and is being coordinated by the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant), Digesett, the National District Mayor’s Office, the Ministry of Culture, the National Police, Politur and other institutions involved in the development of the Colonial City.

Authorities said the plan targets drivers who use the historic district as a shortcut, particularly during peak hours, contributing to traffic congestion, delays and conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians.

The access restrictions will apply permanently every day within the area bordered by Arzobispo Meriño Street to the west, Padre Billini Street to the south and Las Damas Street to the east. Emergency vehicles and garbage collection trucks will be exempt from the restrictions.

Access to the Cathedral area will be available from the north through Arzobispo Meriño Street, via Palo Hincado and Juan Isidro Pérez streets, or from Mella Avenue. Vehicles will not be allowed to enter from Padre Billini Street and will be required to turn right at the intersection with Arzobispo Meriño.

Authorities are encouraging visitors to use nearby parking facilities, including the Atarazana Parking Lot on Restauración Street and the Colonial Zone Parking Lot on Mella Avenue.

Officials emphasized that the Colonial City should be treated as a destination rather than a shortcut. The pilot plan will be continuously monitored and may be adjusted based on traffic conditions and progress on the Colonial City’s tourism and urban development program.