Senior woman fights for more benches at bus stops in Wilhelmshaven!

Senior woman fights for more benches at bus stops in Wilhelmshaven!

In Wilhelmshaven, the situation at the bus stops is increasingly on the subject, especially for older people and people with limited mobility. The committed Ursula Ahrns-Klöfer has set itself the task of fixing the grievance and demands more benches and waiting halls. It emphasizes how important these facilities are for the seniors who often have to wait a long time, especially at the “Luisenstraße” stop, where there is a lack of seating. A look at reality shows: Line 3 has only three out of 18 stops, which are equipped with a roof and seats, while the city of Wilhelmshaven runs a total of around 320 bus stops, only a few of which are equipped with waiting houses and seating.

The lack of benches are explained by the city spokeswoman Julia Muth as a result of the low use of many stops. Often these facilities are not the responsibility of the city, but are subject to the state of Lower Saxony, which is also complicated. Ahrns-Klöfer is particularly critical of the situation on Gökerstrasse and at the “Friedrich-Paffrath-Straße” stop, where the need for seating is high. "The older people only have the option of sitting on a cool bank or waiting while standing," explains Ahrns-Klöfer.

The challenge of accessibility

The problem of the lack of seating also brings with it the discussion about accessibility in public space. The law on equality for disabled people (BGG) and the requirements of the accessibility law (BFSG), which will come into force by the end of June 2025, place high demands on public transport. Accessibility becomes a decisive factor not only for people with disabilities, but also for older people to participate in social life. It is undisputed that public transport is also undisputed.

SEDO offers a wide range of high -quality, barrier -free benches that are characterized by their durability and flexibility. These benches are specially designed to offer people with walkers or wheelchairs a comfortable seating. Particular attention is paid to the individual adaptation, so that seniors are supported in their mobility. Backrags and armrests make it easier to sit down and get up, which is a great relief, especially for older generations.

an initiative for improvement

Ahrns-Klöfer already sent a letter to Mayor Carsten Feist and the transport companies sent a year ago, but the reaction failed to come. Now she is planning a fundraising campaign to finance more benches together with the population. "It's not just about comfort, but about the dignity of people who rely on these facilities," she emphasizes. The retrofitting with waiting halls would cost the city around 25,000 euros per stop, a sum that is often not provided.

at a time when investments in accessibility and the associated quality of life should increase, it is important that the voices of the citizens are heard. Because as the BMV emphasizes: accessibility is not only a legal claim, but also a sign of social responsibility and participation in part for everyone. In Wilhelmshaven, the use for more benches at the bus stops could be a first step in the right direction in order to enable all citizens to use equal use of public transport.