Inner city redevelopment Brüdergasse: Renovation in 2021 at the earliest
City instructed to investigate the option of an additional ramp for cyclists
The city council has received a new investigative order from the planning committee for the planned redesign of Brüdergasse. It is to determine whether, in addition to the planned ramp for disabled access, a shorter ramp for cyclists and motorised wheelchairs could be created next to the steps.
Optionally, the city could also install sliding ramps on the stairs. In Brüdergasse, as previously reported, it will not be until 2021 at the earliest that the supply lines will have to be laid, followed by sewer rehabilitation and road renewal. In the course of this redevelopment, it is also planned to make this inner city street, which leads to the banks of the river Rhine, more attractive.
This project would only be supported within the framework of the Inner City Master Plan if the ramps were to be extended for disabled access. In addition, the city wants to set up benches in the section between the junction Markt/Wenzelgasse and the street Am Belderberg and create additional parking areas for bikes. Two trees would have to be removed, but replacement plantings are planned.
At an information event last year citizens welcomed the project, but criticised the construction of the parking spaces for bikes and the benches. Although the council maintained its stance that Brüdergasse should be an invitation for people to spend time in the street, it changed the positions of the parking areas and benches.
In order to meet the accessibility requirements, it would be possible to extend the ramp towards the city centre. However, the council advises against this because the piazza-like character of the street would be lost. An alternative would be to swivel the ramp.
The entire construction work is expected to take 19 months but will not start until 2021 at the earliest. If it were to begin immediately, the extensive renovations would take until Beethoven's anniversary year 2020, the council explained. Brüdergasse, however, is important as an access point between the city centre and the opera, and the Remigiuskirche is also home to Beethoven's baptismal font, which will certainly be the destination of many tourists in the anniversary year. In accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Tax Act, residents will participate in the costs incurred for the renewal of the mixed water canal which dates from 1886 and the redesign of the surfaces.
Original text: kph
Translation: Caroline Payne
