Environmental trail in the Schwabtunnel: Stuttgart is becoming more bicycle-friendly!

Environmental trail in the Schwabtunnel: Stuttgart is becoming more bicycle-friendly!

In Stuttgart-West, a groundbreaking concept to improve cycling in the Schwabtunnel was adopted. A new environmental lane that exclusively uses buses and cyclists will help optimize traffic flow in the city and make cycling safer. This idea is not entirely new, but it has made a comeback in political discussion. A broad majority in the local council is expected to implement this innovation Stuttgart News report.

The new traffic trial with the title “Environmental lane for bicycle and bus traffic in the Stuttgart-West direction” has already been presented to the administration. The Urban Development and Technology Committee decided to pursue the planned project based on a comprehensive report from the administration. This attempt follows the citizens' initiative “Radentscheid” and the municipal council's fundamental decision from 2019, which aims to create a bicycle-friendly city. The aim is to create a complete and safe cycling infrastructure and at the same time reduce the areas for individual motorized transport Puls0711 supplemented.

Road safety in focus

The Schwabtunnel, originally designed as a tram tunnel, was never intended for car traffic. However, dangerous situations still arise for cyclists who are confronted with tailgating and illegal overtaking in tunnels. Current surveys show that existing traffic regulations are not sufficient to ensure the safety of cyclists. The police have also documented numerous violations of the rules in the Schwabtunnel. Technical and personnel traffic monitoring is currently not possible, which further increases the dangers for cyclists.

Suggestions to structurally separate the roadways or to open the sidewalk for cyclists were rejected as inadequate. Instead, the traffic test should serve as a basis for future decisions about the use of the Schwabtunnel. The previous plans already contain many details and can be implemented promptly.

Positive feedback and future prospects

The share of cycling in Stuttgart is expected to increase to 25% of total traffic by 2025. The majority of the South and West District Advisory Council had already voted in favor of this approach in 2021. Therefore, enriching the cycling infrastructure and carrying out the traffic trial are not only a step in the right direction, but also a response to the growing demands on cycling in the city.

Due to the unique location of the Schwabtunnel, which is located between Erwin-Schöttle-Platz and Schwabstraße and is well connected to local public transport, the quality of life of residents will significantly improve by reducing the number of motorized private transport in the city districts. The traffic-calmed space will not only benefit cyclists, but will also help to reduce pressure on the environment and promote the city's adaptability.

This initiative marks another step towards becoming a more bike-friendly and environmentally conscious city in which cycling plays a central role.