The JUST STREETS Manifesto Webinar

Marco Te Brömmelstroet showed how the metaphors we use - like "traffic flow" and "arterial roads" - reinforce car-centric thinking. Until the 1920s, streets were shared spaces for diverse activities. Mass motorization transformed them into "production streets" optimized for cars at the expense of community life. The manifesto proposes five core principles to reclaim streets: public space, variation, carefree living, participation, and speed control.

Deputy Mayor Melanie van der Horst shared how Amsterdam achieved 70% public support for 30 km/h speed limits citywide by shifting the narrative from restrictions to positive outcomes. Their Amsterdam Max program prioritized creating space for children to play, redefined car access priorities (emergency services and essential deliveries first), and focused on collective responsibility: "We do this for each other."

Filipa Corais presented Braga's experience in the Andres Wire School Quarter, where 80% of public space was allocated to cars. Using the Transition Arena methodology, they created enhanced green areas, implemented white streets around schools, and redesigned school entrances with raised crossings - showing how just streets principles work in practice.

Engaging car drivers requires shifting the conversation to child safety and demonstrating measurable improvements. Media initially amplifies opposition, but consistent storytelling about the broader vision shifts the narrative. These principles apply beyond cities to suburban and rural contexts with local adaptations.