Berlin: Stop the expansion of bike lanes?!

When then Transport Senator Bettina Jarasch (Greens) proposed the expansion of cycle paths in Berlin to promote bicycle mobility, the Greens expected criticism. However, with the change of office and the arrival of the CDU, at the head of the transport senate, the situation quickly escalated. The Greens' bicycle-friendly proposal now faces strong opposition. The CDU, which is now in charge of the capital's mobility plans, is in fact pushing for the project to go ahead in a completely different way - and is practically stopping the expansion.  

Yes to bikes and bike lanes, but only if they don't interfere. The construction and expansion of the cycle lanes should not result in the loss of any lanes or bus lanes, and no more than 10% of the existing parking spaces should be used for the cycle lanes. According to the CDU's proposal, the expansion freeze should also apply if the new cycle lanes would significantly restrict commercial and delivery traffic. CDU transport senator Manja Schreiner, on the other hand, only wants to renovate existing cycle paths - and emphasises emphatically that even in this case the carriageway of the cycle path should not be widened. Because "major roads in the city must remain efficient for commuter, business and delivery traffic," is how Schreiner justifies her decision. In addition, there are financial reasons, as budget restrictions currently require some adjustments to the existing annual planning for cycling and walking measures - the transport authorities further explain. 

The Greens react indignantly to the Senate's plan and criticise that the CDU's decision represents an outdated transport policy - when it actually has the chance to contribute positively to Berlin's future. For the promotion of bicycle mobility is not only about a green turnaround in traffic, but - according to Green Party parliamentary group leader Werner Graf - also about more road safety for all road users. The opinions of the citizens, on the other hand, are more divided. On the one hand, cyclists are naturally disappointed by the politicians' decision to continue to support a vision of the city that tends to be car-oriented - "instead of focusing more on future-worthy means of transport like bicycles". On the other hand, many Berliners share the CDU's view that extending the cycle path would further complicate the traffic situation in Berlin. 

Would there be alternatives that would allow the city to support bicycle traffic without obstructing cars or parking spaces, for example? As important as it is to maintain a balance between all transport users, it also makes sense to invest in green modes of transport, such as bicycle mobility, and accordingly create more space in the city with expansion projects and funding initiatives for those citizens who could choose to do so. Ultimately, Germany, like many other countries within and outside Europe, must significantly reduce its emissions on the roads. Reducing car traffic while creating more space for bicycles may not be a bad idea for the German capital.