Mülheim blooms on: bike paths should be safer and better!

Mülheim blooms on: bike paths should be safer and better!

Bergisch Gladbacher Straße 170, 51069 Köln, Deutschland - In Mülheim, improving the bicycle infrastructure is a central topic that is still intensively pursued by the district council. In April, the expansion of the KVB wheel network in the district was requested to promote cycling. In a meeting in mid -May, three applications were unanimously decided that aim at specific measures for safety and expansion of the bike paths. The first application concerns the redesign of a cycle path at Bergisch Gladbacher Straße 170 in Cologne-Buchheim. The situation for cycling and foot traffic is currently described as dangerous because the bike path is interrupted, and cyclists have to switch to the sidewalk or the road.

Another application requires the establishment of a continuous bicycle path on the Höhenhauser Ring in Cologne-Mülheim. Here the bicycle traffic divides the road with motorized vehicles, which is risky without protective devices. The aim of this application is to implement separate cycling infrastructure. The third application calls for the examination whether a "common walking and cycle path" sign can be set up on Zwickauer Straße in Cologne-Holweide. This road is often used by pedestrians and cyclists, but is currently only allowed for pedestrians. The concern is the opening of the road for cyclists and the installation of the corresponding sign.

bicycle road and further concepts

In addition, the administrative template for the Mülheim bicycle street concept was on the agenda of the session. However, the decision on this new template has been set up, and the vote is expected to be expected at the next meeting in mid -June. These developments are part of a broader initiative to promote cycling, which is promoted in numerous cities such as Berlin. There, the traffic experts observe a continuous increase in the use of bicycles in everyday life. In order to modernize and expand bicycle infrastructures, a comprehensive bicycle traffic network will be developed by 2030 that combines important points such as living sites, shopping areas and recreation areas. The implementation takes place taking into account all districts and expert opinions, including bicycle initiatives and environmental associations, and sufficient personnel and financing are also required.

traffic safety and digital future

A crucial aspect that should be taken into account when improving the bike paths is traffic safety. Future traffic concepts are characterized by environmental and climate protection awareness, which leads to increased use of bicycles, buses and trains instead of cars. The “Vision Zero” project aims to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and seriously injured by 40 % by 2030. In order to achieve this, intelligent software solutions are of great importance. These can help to increase efficiency and security in urban traffic through the use of high-speed networks, IoT sensors and AI computers.

With the digitization of the transport infrastructure, traffic flows can be analyzed in real time. Smart technologies, such as the "Virtualcity@FMS" software, make it possible to simulate future traffic situations and visually present what plays an important role in planning traffic concepts. By integrating cycle paths into existing traffic tours, safe mobility is sought for all road users. In view of the fact that more than half of the world's population lives in urban areas, it is crucial that cities are reacting to this increasing demand in order to promote safe and sustainable active mobility.