By Stephen Peter
Traffic jams for motorists, but more safety for cyclists: there are now cycle lanes on both sides of Amrumer Straße. It was inaugurated on Wednesday by two Green politicians with the “cycling”.
Cyclists now have more space between Föhrer Strasse and Seestrasse – for them there is a cycle lane 2.30 meters wide at a good 1000 metres. “A very important section in Wedding,” said Transport Councilor Almut Neumann (38, Greens). It is important for the staff of the adjacent Virchow Clinic and medical students.
Resident Detlef Fischer (72): “I still find the different arrangement of the bike lanes a bit confusing. But in principle it’s a good thing.” Photo: Ralf Gunther
“This shows once again that cycling is absolutely possible even in the colder months of the year,” said State Secretary for Transport Meike Niedbal (45, Greens). “It’s all a question of clothing.” However, the politician didn’t come with her own bike – the spokesman for her authority brought her official bike for her…
Cyclist Katharina Z. (54): “On one side of the street, the cycle path leads to the right of the parked cars. I’ll have to get used to it, but it’s probably safer this way.” Photo: Ralf Gunther
As soon as both women were gone, traffic was already backing up on Amrumer Strasse in the direction of Seestrasse. Only one lane is available for cars to drive at a time. “There used to be more parking spaces here,” complains Serdar Genc (55). “It’s unfair, after all, we drivers also pay taxes!”
According to current statistics from the traffic administration, a total of 25.8 kilometers of cycle paths were created or renovated in Berlin this year. The list is led by Treptow-Köpenick with 4 kilometers, Spandau brings up the rear with only 63 meters.
Driver Martin Loeffelholz (45): “At first glance, it makes a good impression, and we drivers are also taken care of. But the parking machines are annoying – they collect money, but currently do not issue any parking tickets. Unfortunately, there is no information sign” Photo: Ralf Gunther
The information is only preliminary, late reports from the districts can be expected by March. “I’m sure that there will be a few more kilometers,” said State Secretary Niedbal.