Streets of Frankfurt no longer open for cycling: new safety measure enforced
Let's Talk Bikes on Frankfurter Straße in Neu-Isenburg
Get the scoop on changes to bike rules in this bustling German city!
In a bold move to enhance safety for everyone on the streets, the vibrant city of Neu-Isenburg has scrapped the old sub-rule allowing cyclists to ride on the sidewalk of Frankfurter Straße in a 30 km/h zone. From now on, pedal pushers have to hit the asphalt, with the zone between Carl-Ulrich-Straße/Friedhofstraße and Peterstraße/Schützenstraße off-limits.
The decision came about due to a flurry of complaints and incidents involving primary schoolyard brawls between cyclists and pedestrians in this particular stretch. It's time to put an end to these sketchy situations! With the removal of traffic signs reading "Bicycle traffic allowed," the city has made its stance crystal clear.
Bumps in the Sidewalk
The exemption rule, first introduced in 2007, inviting cyclists to grace the sidewalk, has stirred controversy and ruffled some feathers from the get-go. Pedestrians have long been put in the crossfire, often feeling besieged or endangered by zooming bicycles. Not to mention the challenges these cyclists have presented to drivers entering Frankfurter Straße from side streets.
First Mayor Stefan Schmitt had this to say, "By making this call, we're boosting safety for all road users - Cyclists included. They should stick to the road, just like everyone else, and that's exactly what they'll be doing now." With the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit and careful evaluation, it's clear that cyclist traffic on the road can be safely managed.
Pedal Power Beyond the Zone
The 50 km/h zone further along Frankfurter Straße, between Carl-Ulrich-Straße and Neuhofer Straße, remains untouched. Cyclists can continue to use the wider bicycle lane as usual here.
What Cyclists Need to Know
So, if you're planning on cruising along Frankfurter Straße in Neu-Isenburg, here are the need-to-knows:
- Cyclists are only allowed on the sidewalk where signs explicitly say "Bicycle traffic allowed," and they must pedal at a snail's pace to give priority to pedestrians.
- Without such a sign, riding on the sidewalk is illegal - except for kids under eight, who must stay on the sidewalk, and kiddos between the ages of eight and ten, who may continue to do so.
Stay up-to-date on all the city and district news in Offenbach by subscribing to our free newsletter! We promise not to flood your inbox with spam. Learn more in our privacy policy.
Confirm your subscription by checking your inbox or spam folder!
Other industry, such as transportation and finance, could benefit from this decision in Neu-Isenburg, as improved road safety likely leads to reduced risks and accidents for all users, potentially increasing investment opportunities for insurance and safety equipment manufacturers. Additionally, the decision may foster a more appealing environment for bike-sharing companies in the area, expanding their reach and contribution to alternative transportation solutions in the city.
