Elbe cycle path closed: ADFC warns of traffic chaos in Magdeburg!

Elbe cycle path closed: ADFC warns of traffic chaos in Magdeburg!

In Magdeburg, the closure of the Elbe Cycle Path between the Domfelsen and the Strombrücke is causing a stir. As of today, the popular cycle path, which is used daily by many cycle commuters and tourists, has been closed due to the potential risk of collapse. The problems are said to be due to cavities in the structure that have been known for a long time and for which no diversion has yet been planned, as stated on the website MDR is to be read.

The urban diversion that runs through the city center is rejected by many as inadequate. The General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) is calling for a diversion to the Schleinaufer in order to avoid unnecessary detours. However, one of the four lanes of the Schleinufer would have to be closed. “The existing diversion to the city center prevents smooth cycling traffic and could force cyclists to switch to cars,” warns the ADFC. This could lead to a traffic gridlock in the city, especially considering that thousands of cyclists use the Elbe cycle path every day, especially during the summer months.

Traffic chaos threatens

The situation is further exacerbated by the ADFC's concerns that even just 10% of cyclists switching to cars could have serious consequences. “The departure at St. John's Church is impractical for many cyclists with heavy luggage,” explains a spokesman for the ADFC. The city administration's communication has also been criticized: information about the closure was only published the evening after the announcement, which makes the situation even more tense.

The so far unresolved crossing at the Petriförder completes the picture. Here the conditions for cyclists are not only inadequate but also risky. According to a study, 19% of tourists say they visit Magdeburg because of the Elbe cycle path. This shows how important this cycle path is for tourism in the city and how much the closure could put a strain on cycle tourism. Another problem is the fact that many surveyed service providers in the tourism industry are calling for improvements in cycle tourism. The current situation, in particular the closure of the Elbe cycle path and the demolition of the Petri conveyor bridge, has significantly worsened these conditions ADFC Magdeburg notes.

Cycle tourism on the rise

Cycle tourism in Germany is currently booming. In 2022 alone, 4.6 million cycling trips were counted - an increase compared to 2021. Almost 38 million people went on at least one day trip by bike, this reports Mobility Forum. This underlines the growing popularity of cycling as a leisure activity and as an environmentally friendly alternative in everyday life.

The responsible authorities in Magdeburg are faced with a challenge here. The ADFC recommends directing pedestrian and bicycle traffic at the Domfelsen onto the Schleinaufer roadway and back to the Elbe at the river bridge. This is the only way to ensure healthy and safe cycling. The coming weeks will show whether and how quickly a practical solution can be found.