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Hamburg, Germany – City officials presented comprehensive plans on Wednesday evening aimed at enhancing safety and improving the quality of the public space along the eastern shore of the Alster. The area, specifically the stretch between the Kennedy Bridge and Lohmühlenstraße, is currently one of the busiest cycling corridors in Hamburg, with daily traffic exceeding 12,000 cyclists.
Focus on Cycling Infrastructure
The primary objective of the proposal, developed by the State Agency for Roads, Bridges, and Watercourses (LSBG), is the expansion of the Alster bicycle axis. The plan outlines the creation of a continuous, wide two-way cycle path designed to accommodate the high volume of commuters and recreational riders. Additionally, the project includes provisions for increased bicycle parking facilities to address current shortages.
Environmental Restoration and Accessibility
Beyond cycling improvements, the city aims to enhance the accessibility of the Alster waterfront, including the construction of barrier-free access points east of the Kennedy Bridge. A core component of the redesign is the protection and further renaturation of the ecologically valuable shoreline areas. City planners have committed to replacing any trees that must be removed during construction with new plantings in various locations throughout the area.
Traffic and Logistics
Despite the focus on cycling, the city confirmed that the existing four lanes for automobile traffic will be preserved. However, adjustments to logistics are expected; the loading zones for delivery traffic near the Gurlitt Island are slated for expansion, which will result in the removal of some parking spaces. Officials emphasized that sailing and rowing clubs, as well as local businesses, will remain fully accessible throughout the project.
Timeline and Next Steps
The proposed concept is expected to be approved by the Hamburg Parliament (Bürgerschaft) in its upcoming session, following a motion submitted by the SPD and Green parties. While the LSBG currently targets an April 2028 start for construction, city officials noted that detailed timelines and design specifics will be developed in collaboration with affected stakeholders and residents.
This initiative follows the recent completion of the Hohenfelder Bucht project, which successfully integrated new road and pedestrian-cycle bridges into the Alster infrastructure.
Source: Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR)
