Phnom Penh: Municipality launches trial of 1st pedestrian zone

This weekend, the Phnom Penh administration launched the first phase of its ‘Walk Street’ project along Quai Sisowath, from the Cambodian Post Office to the Royal Palace (street no. 240).

Municipality launches trial of 1st pedestrian zone

This initiative will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 6pm to 11pm. The pedestrian zone will be closed to all vehicular traffic.

The municipality also plans to set up food stalls, offer concerts, install painting galleries and circus shows to enrich the experience for tourists.

Prior to the launch, the authorities will publish announcements to inform residents of the area. Strict measures will be implemented to maintain order, ensuring that no vehicles enter during the scheduled hours. At the end of the trial period, the authorities will evaluate and refine the initiative in order to improve this brand new experience.

The overall project aims to transform 57 hectares of the Daun Penh district into a pedestrian haven, with a range of shops, restaurants, hotels and bars, all designed to enhance the city's appeal to both locals and tourists.

The pedestrian zone project is divided into three distinct zones covering a total area of 57 hectares.

Zone 1: The first designated zone, in front of the post office, stretches from Rue 94 in the north to Rue 106 in the south, and from Rue 13 in the west to Sisowath Quay in the east. This area is destined to become a food street and shopping area, promising a mix of culinary delights and shopping.

Zone 2: The second zone, destined to become a popular street, is bounded by 106 Street to the north, 184 Street to the south, 13 Street to the west and Sisowath Quay to the east. This zone aims to capture cultural vibrancy and creative expression, serving as a platform for pop-up events and street performances.

Zone 3: The third pedestrian zone, envisaged as a leisure area, is bounded by Rue 184 to the north, Boulevard Sihanouk to the south, Rue 07 to the west and Sisowath Quay to the east. This zone is intended to provide a leisure and recreation area in the heart of the city, with an emphasis on green spaces and recreational activities.

The inauguration of the pedestrian zone took place in the presence of H.E. Khuong Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh

According to the municipality, the city also plans to embellish these areas with green belts, original mixed lighting in the gardens and the provision of essential facilities such as public toilets, temporary car parks and entertainment venues. The Phnom Penh Pedestrian Zone aims to create a space that transforms the heart of the city into a thriving pedestrian paradise, improving the quality of urban life and enhancing the city's international appeal.