Saale cycle path bridge opened in Kaulsdorf: A new classic for cyclists!

Saale cycle path bridge opened in Kaulsdorf: A new classic for cyclists!

On Sunday the time had finally come: the new Saale cycle path bridge in Kaulsdorf was ceremonially opened with numerous visitors. In her speech, Mayor Kerstin Barczus emphasized that this building connects the six districts of the municipality and thus strengthens the community. District Administrator Marko Wolfram was sure that the bridge would significantly improve conditions for cyclists on the popular southern Saale cycle path around the Hohenwarte reservoir. The ceremony was accompanied by a colorful program that included, among other things, a performance by a choir and a blessing by the parish priest.

With a length of 70 meters and a cost of 5.5 million euros, the suspension bridge represents a true milestone for the region. The Free State of Thuringia generously covered 80 percent of the construction costs, while the local district and municipality contributed the rest. Although the bridge is already in place, the question of its name still remains. Around 30 proposals have been submitted to the local council, but a decision is still pending and is expected next year.

An important project for cycling

The new structure closes an important gap on the Saale cycle path. According to Saaleinfo, the new river crossing will alleviate one of the worst-rated sections in particular and will also make it possible to avoid a 100-meter increase in altitude. Economics Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee described the closure of the gap as “terrific” and emphasized the relevance of cycle tourism for Thuringia. The focus here is not only on leisure traffic, but also on promoting everyday cycling.

Cyclists should feel safer and more comfortable in the future. The cycling concept “Thuringia is rising” is the basic design for cycling policy until 2030. The focus is on expanding the state cycle tourism network and implementing uniform cycle routing to improve safety. The Free State of Thuringia has already put together funding programs for municipalities to implement these measures and improve the quality of the cycle path infrastructure.

Future prospects for cycle tourism

The adjustment of cycling strategies is also supported by digital tour suggestions that are intended to boost cycle tourism. In this way, cyclists can receive targeted information that enables better planning of their trips. The goal is clear: to get more people excited about cycling and to increase the number of overnight stays in the region.

With the opening of the Saale cycle path bridge, another important step has been taken in this direction. This project significantly strengthens the connection not only between the districts, but also to nature and the sights of this attractive region. The enthusiasm about the bridge is also reflected in the faces of the visitors, who can look forward to eventful rides on the Saale cycle path.