As a result of the long lockdowns and safety concerns connected with COVID-19, Paris is introducing pedestrian-friendly programs and supporting the creation of car-free zones.

When the original COVID wave made indoor meetings impossible in the majority of countries, several cities rapidly copied outdoor living. Some transformed formerly car-heavy districts into hotspots for walking and cycling by constructing pedestrian-only streets, converting parking spaces into pop-up restaurants, and adding more bike lanes. Paris had already begun to become more pedestrian-friendly before the pandemic. The lower quays along the Seine river became completely pedestrianized in late 2016. In 2018, the change was made permanent. This was done as a part of a citywide effort to reduce the number of cars. To reduce the amount of traffic caused by cars, more bike lanes have been built. By 2026, the city hopes to build 180 kilometers of new bike lanes and 180,000 more bike parking spaces.

The majority of the locals have accepted the numerous changes and expect more. Locals prefer it because there are fewer cars and a more laid-back atmosphere.