The COVID-19 pandemic, which spread worldwide in 2020, prompted lockdowns and physical-distancing measures that emptied city centres, offices and transit. Authorities rapidly widened pavements, created emergency cycle lanes and reallocated road and parking space to outdoor dining and recreation, while remote and hybrid work became widespread overnight. The disruption accelerated the proximity or 15-minute-city agenda and shifted activity toward residential neighbourhoods. Many temporary street changes were later made permanent.
It reopened century-old questions about urban density, distance and the role of public space, and tested the future of the dense business district. The crisis became a catalyst for rethinking streets, commuting and where people live and work.