Barbara Laa of the TU Wien has researched how municipalities in Austria can overcome obstacles to redesigning public spaces and streets. Many local governments desire to reshape areas for pedestrian use and improved quality of life, but frequently face challenges in implementation. Laa’s research focuses on identifying these hurdles and proposing solutions to facilitate successful urban transformations. The core finding suggests that removing car traffic unveils the potential amount of space available for alternative uses. This research is particularly relevant for cities across Austria grappling with balancing transportation needs and creating more livable environments. Ultimately, Laa’s work provides insights for Austrian municipalities seeking to prioritize people-centric urban planning.