The traffic situation in Marko Plenčič Square is bad. The square is designed for parking and two-way traffic without dedicated areas for non-motorized traffic, which makes it dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists. There are many unmarked parking spaces and parking violations in the square. The entrance to the local community center and the most beautiful space on the square – a spot directly under the linden trees in front of the church - are also often occupied by cars. Nevertheless, the square has great potential to become a vibrant center in the town of Solkan. It needs more events, greater pedestrian safety, and more reasons for people to visit the square in the first place.

For a test period of three months (August - October 2021), we reorganized the square and brought events to the location. We shook up the old parking regime and established 19 new parking spaces in discreet areas all around the square. We drew 23 parking spaces and provided additional parking space outside the square, while gaining 500m2 of public space in the square and safer access for pedestrians. The closure of one of the square entrances allowed for easier pedestrian access and slowed down car traffic.

Kiosk Mobilet

To promote the square and the public programme, we set up Mobilet – a kiosk that could be rented free of charge by local entrepreneurs and non-profit organisations. 20 different entrepreneurs and organizations used the kiosk and their activities brought an additional 700-800 visitors to the square. The activities could expand across the square thanks to movable chairs and tables. It turned out that the spot under the large linden trees that provides shade in the summer heat was invaluable, and could be immediately dedicated to pedestrians and social activities instead of cars.

At the end of the test, we conducted analyses, a survey, and a public debate. Perceptions of the market and response to the test arrangement have been shown to vary widely between residents and visitors. Residents were accustomed to parking in the square and were mostly not in favour of the test arrangement. Visitors recognized other values of the square, supported the activities and the decreased number of parked cars.

The test showed that the square has enough space for people and cars. The test arrangement shook established parking habits in the square and adjacent streets. Nevertheless, residents interested in parking rejected the possibility of returning the square traffic regulation to the pre-test state. They supported the regulation in the direction of a car free area with social programme - if they could park as they have so far. Based on the test results, the City Municipality of Nova Gorica will continue the project, starting with an extended study of the traffic regulation of the area.