Construction Begins on Eco-Friendly Cycling Route in Vienna
On April 7, 2025, Vienna officials announced the commencement of a significant development in the city's cycling infrastructure. The new cycling route, extending approximately 2.5 kilometers, will connect Seeböckgasse and Geblergasse, forming a vital link to the Hernalser Gürtel and enhancing the overall cycling experience in the 16th and 17th districts.
This project aims to create a comfortable and environmentally friendly cycling corridor, providing cyclists with increased safety and improved travel conditions. The initiative also includes the planting of 58 new trees, contributing to urban greening efforts and improving the quality of life for residents and pedestrians alike.
Vienna's Mobility Councillor emphasized the importance of this new cycling route, highlighting its role in facilitating safe access to schools, shopping areas, and the inner city. The addition of a new pocket park in front of the House of Mercy has also been completed, offering a pleasant space for both residents and visitors.
District leaders expressed their enthusiasm for the project, noting that it would not only enhance the cycling experience but also improve the overall streetscape. The planned upgrades aim to create a more inclusive environment, particularly benefiting local institutions such as schools and kindergartens.
The route's design includes measures to reduce through traffic, ensuring safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. Modal filters and one-way street adjustments will be implemented to mitigate vehicular traffic, while sidewalks will be widened to accommodate increased foot traffic.
In addition to the new cycling path, the project will provide a direct connection to the existing Gürtel cycling route, improving accessibility for cyclists. A dedicated crossing will facilitate safe passage over the Gürtel for those on foot.
As part of the initiative, the city is committed to enhancing the urban landscape by introducing green spaces and permeable pavements that allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil, benefiting the newly planted trees and alleviating pressure on the stormwater system.
The pocket park in front of the House of Mercy has already been finished, featuring seven new trees and various planting beds that create a pleasant microclimate. This area is designed to be a communal space, offering recreational opportunities for children and families, particularly those associated with the nearby care facilities.
Vienna continues to advance its cycling infrastructure through an extensive cycling initiative, with over 250 projects and nearly 100 kilometers of main cycling routes planned or underway. The city has invested approximately 130 million euros in enhancing its cycling network, which has led to a notable increase in cycling usage among residents.
Overall, this project represents a significant step towards making Vienna a more cyclist-friendly city, supporting sustainable urban mobility while enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.