EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - Promoting cycling

Promoting cycling – Erlangen, DE

Introduction

The city has implemented a pro-bicycle policy since 1977. It would like to see cycling becoming the main means of transport in the city. With this goal in mind, it has decided to give priority to the construction of tracks for long-distance commuting by bicycle (up to 10 km).

Problem

The modal distribution proves that with the increase in car traffic over the past few years, the measures taken have not been sufficient to reduce cars' share on the whole. A structural reason is those people not working using a car.

Description

Developing environmentally-friendly means of transport is at the heart of Erlangen's transport policy. From 1977, the planning outline called for all reasonable means of transport to be examined so as to encourage drivers to choose public transport and softer means of transport (cycling, walking) above their cars.

The priorities set when planning the cycling network include: reducing current accident spots, connecting the various cycle tracks, meeting the need for tracks that specifically connect residential areas with the main destinations such as schools, the workplace and supermarkets.

In Erlangen, the width of cycle tracks is 1.5 m, road-network permitting. They are either located alongside separate 2.5 m-wide pavements, or they are merged with pavements in which case the width is 3 to 4 m. They are levelled so as to protect bicycles' tires against punctures. Furthermore, they are painted red, which not only facilitates crossing intersections but also commands vehicles' and pedestrians' respect (vehicles are less likely to park on a red track than on another).

Approach

Cycle tracks are advertised in Erlangen to create awareness of their existence among residents. A detailed map of the city especially intended for cyclists' use is regularly updated. At large intersections, signposts indicate directions so that cyclists might know where to go and cycle in favourable conditions.

The municipality has lead by example by purchasing 130 bicycles now used by its employees. Likewise, bicycle rentals have been expanded. Moreover, traffic surveys are conducted on a regular basis so that tools to evaluate the implemented policy are available, and in so doing, to put forward new measures.

Results

Measures have been taken to ensure that cyclists welcome cycle tracks. Extremely detailed plans were drawn up, which means that cyclists are not pushed to the perimeter of the traffic at the various intersections, but they are completely integrated into the traffic with their own lanes and traffic lights. At certain intersections they even enjoy priority above cars.
Constructing new tracks has been planned to shorten trips between residential areas and the town centre, and to make them safer. Lights have therefore been installed along such off-centre tracks to create a safer environment for women and children.
An integral network has allowed for other measures to be put in place so as to make trips by bicycle more convenient, namely: the possibility to cycle in both directions in lanes in which motor vehicles may only drive in one direction, to cycle in one-way lanes, to use bus lanes, to make passageways for cyclists in dead-end roads etc. In other terms, rather than systematically constructing new cycle tracks, the aim was to use existing roads rationally and optimally. Thanks to this measure, the typical structure and character of the city have been preserved.
A new situation has come to light during the past few years. Technical progress means that bicycles can easily attain a speed of 25 to 30 km/h, yet such speed is not compatible with mixed pedestrian/cycle tracks. New signposts have therefore been put in place. These tracks are now called pedestrian lanes, but cyclists are allowed to used them. Similarly, "fast" cyclists are allowed to ride on the road, which was previously prohibited.
Finally, parking conditions for cyclists have been improved. They can now park their bicycles near public transport stops, particularly so as to encourage intermodality (new shelters etc.). At some places of employment, with the concerned companies' approval, cloak rooms and showers have been built.

Contact info

Stadt Erlangen (City of Erlangen)
Mr Joachim Kaluza, tel. +49 9131 86 26 32

Project start date

//1977

Links

Erlangen is a partner in the Energie Cités Network

Download the `Promoting cycling – Erlangen, DE´ Report (PDF, Eng, 177 KB)

Document type

case

Themes

Urban Policy > Urban environment

Keywords

Environmental sustainability