Long-term system adjustment to traffic restrictions: the example of Milan

A survey was conducted to measure the impacts of the closure of the historic center of Milan, Italy to most private car traffic on traffic and economic conditions. Public transport within the center increased and congestion and pollution was reduced during closure. However, traffic congestion increased in the center's immediately surroundings. The center's resident population increased with reduced traffic congestion and pollution, and permission to use private vehicles within the area and residential rates increased. No significant change was found in the location of center's commercial sector.