Environmental and Noise Protection - Wiesbaden is setting pace 30 and 40 in the city centre
To alleviate residents from noise and air pollution, the city of Wiesbaden has reduced the speed limit to 30 km/h and 40 km/h on several main thoroughfares in the city center. This benefits more than 17,000 direct residents, with thousands more benefiting from adjacent side streets, the state capital announced at the start of the new signage.
The reduction is based on a recent noise mapping. Calculations showed that lowering the speed would result in a significant reduction in noise. "We've been talking about noise protection for a long time. Now we're implementing it," explained Traffic Commissioner Andreas Kowol (Greens).
Speed reduction to lower accident risk
On the major axes, the speed limit will be 40 km/h, while on the remaining city streets, it will be reduced from 50 km/h to 30 km/h.
"Especially on accident-prone street sections, a speed reduction lowers the accident risk," added Kowol. The FWG/Pro Auto faction in the city council criticized the move, saying Wiesbaden was being turned into a "snail city." Those who want it quiet should not move to the city center.
Bicycle riders welcome less stress on the streets
The General German Bicycle Club, however, welcomes the change. The Wiesbaden chapter expects that this will significantly reduce tensions and stress between road users and improve safety for cyclists.
The City of Wiesbaden's actions to decrease speed limits are beneficial not only for direct residents but also for those around adjacent side streets, contributing positively to their environment. Lower speeds can significantly decrease noise levels, thereby improving the overall living conditions of the community.
