Budapest’s public transport operator BKK announced plans on Thursday to introduce ‘school streets’ near selected educational institutions. These zones will restrict motor vehicle access during morning arrivals and afternoon dismissals, allowing only pedestrians and micromobility devices, such as scooters and bicycles.
The initiative is part of the Sulizóna (School Zone) programme and aims to create a safer, calmer, and healthier environment for students, parents, and school staff. According to BKK, similar measures implemented internationally have significantly reduced the risk of accidents, while also improving air quality by cutting down vehicle emissions around schools.
Under the proposed system, designated school streets could be closed to car traffic either during specific time windows or even throughout the day. Local residents may still exit these streets in vehicles, but only at a maximum speed of 10 km/h and with extra caution. However, re-entry during restricted periods would not be allowed.
BKK emphasized that these changes would reduce traffic congestion and minimize the chaotic, often hazardous scenes typical of school zones during peak hours. They would also address common issues such as illegal parking and unsafe drop-offs.
Parents who still choose to drive their children to school would be encouraged to stop further away, helping to protect students from pollution and reduce the risk of injuries near school gates.
The programme targets institutions that are both open to change and located on streets where through-traffic restrictions are feasible. Traffic experts will carry out detailed analyses and consult with stakeholders, including district governments, to ensure the system is practical and sustainable.
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