SPD calls for traffic lights on the Maade cycle path – safety for cyclists now!

SPD calls for traffic lights on the Maade cycle path – safety for cyclists now!

There is resistance in Wilhelmshaven, and this has primarily to do with traffic safety. The local SPD West and Central branches are pushing for the installation of an urgently needed traffic light on the Maaderadweg. As nwzonline.de reports, climate protection manager André Lachmund had already announced the establishment of this security measure in January 2024. But seven months have passed since then without the traffic lights being installed.

The crossing on Ostfriesenstrasse in particular is perceived as a danger point. Highly frequented pedestrian and cycle paths intersect here, especially in rush hour traffic when there are many families and children on the move. The recent asphalting of the road left out the installation of traffic lights, further increasing concerns about the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. Local SPD politicians are now calling for at least signs to be put up as an immediate measure to ensure a safer crossing.

Bundeswehr cycle path network as a decisive factor

The Maaderadweg is not just a simple cycle path; it is part of the larger “Bundeswehr cycle path network” project in Wilhelmshaven. This project is intended to help better network various military properties in the city, as the city administration explains on its website wilhelmshaven.de. Wilhelmshaven is home to the largest naval base in Germany, which underlines the importance of suitable cycle paths.

The cycle path network includes two main routes – a north-south route of 13 kilometers and an east-west route of 9 kilometers. These routes not only serve Bundeswehr members, but also students from Jade University and other residents of the city. Among other things, measures such as the renovation of roads and the creation of new cycle paths are planned. All of this is done with financial support from the national climate protection initiative and aims to increase the safety and attractiveness of cycling.

The importance of safe cycling infrastructure

The demands for good cycling infrastructure are not new, and they also resonate in a nationwide context. According to the ADFC, almost half of Germans feel unsafe while cycling adfc.de. To counteract this, the ADFC has developed 15 guidelines that aim to create a consistent, high-quality cycling network. It is important that cycling routes are intuitive and attractive to all users, regardless of age and ability.

Guidelines such as protected cycle lanes and physical barriers between cycling and car traffic are crucial to increasing the safety of cyclists. A high standard of cycling infrastructure can not only increase safety, but also lead to more people choosing cycling as a means of transport.

The SPD will bring the topic of the traffic light to future city committees and can rely on financial support provided by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection. The pressure to ensure the safety of children and families is high, and there is still hope that the traffic lights will be installed in a timely manner.