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Easing traffic gridlock for bike commuters is on the horizon

City initiates plans to eradicate hazardous obstruction for cyclists and pedestrians, following the political summer recess, as decided by the District Council of Alt-Oberhausen.

Easing traffic congestion on roads for cyclists
Easing traffic congestion on roads for cyclists

Easing traffic gridlock for bike commuters is on the horizon

Improving Safety for Cyclists and Pedestrians in "Im Lipperfeld"

In an effort to enhance traffic safety for cyclists and pedestrians in the city, attention has been drawn to the poorly visible ramp crossing "Im Lipperfeld" street, which connects the New Center with the Brücktor district. This path, heavily used by both pedestrians and cyclists, has been identified as a potential safety concern due to its low visibility for vehicles.

Safety Improvements

To address this issue, several measures are being considered:

  1. Enhanced Visibility: High-intensity LED lights could be installed to illuminate the ramp, and reflective materials used on signs and markings to improve visibility during low-light conditions.
  2. Infrastructure Adjustments: The ramp could be modified to include a more visible curvature or slope, and channelization devices like cones or bollards could be placed to guide traffic and separate cyclists/pedestrians from vehicles.
  3. Traffic Management: Speed cameras or speed bumps could be implemented to reduce vehicle speeds near the ramp, and clear traffic signs indicating the presence of cyclists and pedestrians could be installed.
  4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Enhancements: High-visibility crosswalks with raised platforms could be used to slow traffic and provide a clear path for pedestrians and cyclists.
  5. Public Awareness and Education: Public campaigns could be launched to raise awareness about shared pathways and the need for caution when approaching the area, and segments in driver education programs could highlight the importance of watching for pedestrians and cyclists in shared zones.

Future Development Considerations

Long-term infrastructure plans could include upgrading the current infrastructure to include protected bike lanes and pedestrian paths, similar to those in cities like Seattle’s Alaskan Way safety project. Engaging the local community in discussions about safety improvements is also crucial to ensure that solutions are tailored to the specific needs of the area.

It's worth noting that the bushes at the ramp need to be pruned more regularly to create more space, and there is no specific information about the current safety measures or signs at the ramp. Additionally, approximately 2,700 vehicles pass through "Im Lipperfeld" daily, making it challenging for vehicles to perceive pedestrians and cyclists crossing.

By implementing these measures, safety can be significantly enhanced for both cyclists and pedestrians using the shared ramp.

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