Starting on Monday, Friedrichstrasse transforms into a pedestrian-only area.
In the heart of Berlin, preparations are underway for a significant transformation of Friedrichstraße, one of the city's most iconic streets. The planned changes, set to be officially presented today by Bettina Jarasch, Senator for Urban Development and Almuth Neumann, the district mayor, will mark a new era for this bustling thoroughfare.
Starting on Monday, April 6, Friedrichstraße will transition into a pedestrian zone, with bicycle riders being barred from using the street. This move is part of a larger vision to create an attractive 'piazza' environment, similar to those found in Italy, as expressed by Bettina Jarasch.
The idea for this transformation was first conceived in August 2020, during a traffic trial under Regine Günther. Since then, the street section between Französische and Leipziger Straße has been the focus of ongoing discussions and plans. The visualization published by Bettina Jarasch's senate administration depicts a vibrant streetscape filled with trees, planters, sun loungers, and fountains.
However, the project has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about the wide bike lane in the middle of the street, and the intended promenade was initially inaccessible due to yellow markings separating the bike lane. Despite these challenges, the traffic administration continues to push for a pure pedestrian zone.
The conversion of Friedrichstraße is expected to be completed by Friday, and the pedestrian zone now has a valid legal basis. This is just one of many projects related to Berlin-Mitte that are currently in the works.
In addition to the Friedrichstraße transformation, Bettina Jarasch has ambitious plans for the mobility transition in Berlin. She aims to create 50 new 'Kiezblocks' by 2026, further enhancing the city's pedestrian-friendly environment.
There is also a discussion underway about creating a pedestrian zone at Hackescher Markt in Berlin-Mitte. As the city continues to evolve, these transformative changes will undoubtedly shape the way Berlinites and visitors experience the city.
Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments in Berlin's urban landscape.
