Overview of the Result
Voters in the city of Lucerne delivered a clear result: 58.5% voted against the Green-led initiative to impose extensive car restrictions in four central quarters, while 41.5% supported it. Turnout was 55.49%. The referendum focused on Bruch, Hirschmatt, Neustadt, and Kleinmatt, where residents would have seen a bold shift toward greener streets and more pedestrian-friendly spaces.
What the Proposal Entailed
The core idea was to curb auto traffic as much as possible in the four central quarters. The plan included a driving ban for most cars, removal of parking where legally feasible, and the creation of reserved spots for goods handling and tradespeople. Despite the restrictions for private vehicles, public transport would continue to operate on the streets as usual, ensuring mobility for residents and visitors while aiming to reduce congestion and pollution. The initiative also emphasized increasing greenery and overall quality of life in these neighborhoods.
Directly Affected Quarters Showed Support
Chiara Peyer, a city parliamentarian for the Young Greens and co-initiator, acknowledged the outcome by framing the result as an important signal. “We would have liked a yes, but the nearly 42 percent support in the directly affected quarters is a sign of respect,” she said. “There is a clear demand for car-free quarters, more green space, and improved livability in these neighborhoods.”
Government and Public Mobility Perspectives
Marco Baumann, the city’s Environmental and Mobility Director, described the vote as a fundamental principle decision for Lucerne’s urban planning. He noted that the four directly impacted quarters have active small businesses, and the discussion around the proposal sparked strong emotions. Baumann also welcomed the high turnout, viewing it as a healthy sign of public engagement in critical transport questions.
Political Landscape in the City Parliament
In the municipal assembly, the Greens, the Social Democrats (SP), and a faction of the GLP backed the initiative. Opposing the plan were the SVP, FDP, and the-centrist bloc Mitte. The counter-argument from opponents centered on the potential risks to local commerce and the needs of residents who rely on cars for daily life. Cost considerations and the fear of driving restrictions affecting livelihoods also played a key role in the opposition’s case.
What Comes Next for Lucerne
With the referendum decisively rejecting the plan, city leaders will likely use the outcome to recalibrate transport and urban-planning strategies. The result does not close the door on greener, pedestrian-friendly improvements in the central quarters; instead, it signals a more incremental approach that balances mobility, business needs, and livability. The mayoral and council teams are expected to review current projects, engage with neighborhood stakeholders, and chart a path that advances greenery and quality of life without imposing broad car bans on four quarters.
