Shifting Gears: Frankfurt's Push Towards Sustainable Mobility
Frankfurt's municipal council paves the path for transport transformation - City administration endorses road traffic adjustments in Frankfurt
The City Council of Frankfurt am Main has made a significant leap in altering the urban landscape with the approval of their new transportation strategy, referred to colloquially as "Frankfurt Forward". Traffic commissioner Wolfgang Siefert (Greens) viewed this as a "groundbreaking moment" for the city.
This strategy, delayed by two years, emphasizes sustainable mobility, intelligent traffic networking, safeguarding health, and enhancing safety.
"The focus is on catering to the needs of people and all transportation methods," the department stated. "We keep environmental, economic, and social aspects in mind at all times." The strategy primarily promotes pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport. By 2035, these three groups should account for 80% of the trips made, compared to 63% in 2018.
Promoting Walkability, Biking, and Public Transportation
"The implementation of Frankfurt Forward should bolster Frankfurt's standing as a livable and mobile city, consistently expanding space-saving and eco-friendly pedestrian, cycling, and public transport infrastructure," it said.
Measures like these are planned:
- Expansion of cycling facilities
- Strengthening public transit networks
- Establishment of low-traffic zones
- Parking fee increases
- Appointment of a pedestrian and logistics commissioner
- Promotion of electric mobility
- Expansion of car-sharing services
The goal is to achieve carbon neutrality in the transport sector by 2035, significantly decrease noise pollution, and lower the number of fatalities and severe injuries in road accidents.
Backlash from the Business Community
Parts of the opposition sharply criticized the plan. For instance, the CDU stated, "The car is being demonized." Business groups also voiced disapproval. Clients, suppliers, and employees should not be alienated by a "one-sided anti-car policy," several Frankfurt organizations claimed, including the Chamber of Crafts, the IHK, the Taxi Association, and the Automobile Club of Germany.
Frankfurt Forward replaces the 2005 comprehensive transport plan. The city now complies with the EU's requirement for a sustainable mobility strategy by 2027. In March this year, the Römer coalition of Greens, SPD, FDP, and Volt finally adopted the strategy following lengthy negotiations.
Frankfurt at the Forefront of Transportation Strategies nationwide
Frankfurt Forward was initially unveiled in 2023. It was developed in collaboration with administration, science, and the public. According to the traffic department, Frankfurt was among the first German cities to publish such a comprehensive transportation strategy.
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- City Council
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Insights:Frankfurt's Forward strategy promotes a shift towards sustainable urban mobility modes, including bicycles, electric scooters, and public transportation. The strategy also emphasizes the integration of smart city technologies, the reduction of emissions through micro-delivery and autonomous vehicles, and mixed-use development that supports sustainable transport access. The primary objective is to achieve carbon neutrality in urban mobility through the phaseout of internal combustion engine vehicles and the adoption of electric and zero-emission alternatives. Additionally, the strategy aims to increase accessibility and proximity, enhance urban liveability, and foster innovation and collaboration.
- The City Council of Frankfurt am Main, in an effort to boost environmental-science and finance, has sanctioned the comprehensive transportation strategy named "Frankfurt Forward."
- The Frankfurt Forward policy, which prioritizes mobility and transportation, plans to promote sustainable practices like cycling, electric mobility, and car-sharing services.
- The strategy, supported by science and the public, seeks to replace the traditional vehicle-centric transportation models with a focus on pedestrian, cycling, and public transport infrastructure.
- Frankfurt must reinforce its industries, commerce, and lifestyle by ensuring flexible mobility options within the city while combating fatalities and noise pollution.
- The strategy is aimed at positioning Frankfurt as a hub for science, industry, and transportation that fosters a home-and-garden-friendly and eco-friendly urban lifestyle by 2035.
- Franklin Forward's implementation is expected to encounter opposition from certain business communities, who are concerned about an anti-car policy that may potentially alienate their clients, suppliers, and employees.
