Berlin-Mitte: Friedrichstrasse is again partially closed to cars and bicycles
From this Monday, a section of Friedrichstrasse in Berlin-Mitte is again taboo for cars. This was announced by Transport Senator Bettina Jarasch (Greens) last Wednesday – and thus also caused criticism within the coalition.
On Monday morning, Friedrichstrasse in Berlin-Mitte between Französische Strasse and Leipziger Strasse will be closed to traffic again. The section may then no longer be used by bicycle. According to the traffic administration, the officially necessary “decree on reclassification” was published in the official gazette on Friday.
According to the administration, the 500-meter-long area is to become a permanent pedestrian zone. Seating and greenery are planned. The future space should also be for art and culture, according to a statement.
Traffic Senator Bettina Jarasch (Greens) announced the measure in the middle of the election campaign last Wednesday. This met with fierce criticism, including in the ranks of the governing coalition.
The governing mayor Franziska Giffey (SPD) said that this action had not been coordinated with the Senate and that she did not consider this solo effort to be well thought out. An overall concept is missing. You can’t just block the road and then think about what to do. Economics Senator Stephan Schwarz (independent) says something similar. This calls into question the idea of real participation by residents and traders.
Left Chairwoman Katina Schubert called the announcement “campaign ringing”. Representatives of the opposition and from business also criticized the blocking. Jarasch, on the other hand, defended her decision. Friedrichstrasse is to become a modern urban space.
After the re-election to the House of Representatives, Traffic Senator Jarasch will be responsible for planning the permanent design of the pedestrian zone.
The same section of Friedrichstrasse had already been closed to cars in August 2020. However, the hoped-for upswing for the shopping street did not materialize. The scheme was terminated by a court last November after a trader sued.
Show: evening show, January 29, 2023, 7:30 p.m