Dusseldorf considers a car-free Corneliusplatz, contingent on universal adherence to regulations
In the heart of Düsseldorf, the city's Ordnungs- und Verkehrsausschuss made a significant decision on 17.04.2024, planning to make Corneliusplatz car-free on the side towards Schadowplatz. However, the timeline for this initiative has yet to be met, with the concept for the car-free Corneliusplatz yet to be submitted by Jochen Kral, as stated in November.
The traffic authorities have officially installed the VZ 260 signs at all vehicle entry points to Corneliusplatz, marking it as a car-free zone intended to restrict motorized traffic. Additional measures such as physical barriers or curb extensions may have been introduced to support the enforcement. The implementation phase included public information campaigns to inform residents, businesses, and visitors about the new regulations.
Regular monitoring is carried out using traffic cameras and manual patrols to identify violations. Fines or warnings are issued to drivers who violate the car-free zone regulations. Coordination with local police and municipal authorities ensures prompt and effective enforcement. Early data indicates a high compliance rate, generally above 80% of drivers respect the sign restrictions. Occasional violations occur, more frequently during off-peak hours or special events, but these are decreasing over time due to increased awareness and enforcement. Feedback from residents suggests improved safety and pedestrian comfort in Corneliusplatz.
The Königsallee Düsseldorf association criticized the decision-making process, feeling left out, and reserved legal steps, as mentioned in November. The parliamentary groups of Die PARTEI-Klima-Fraktion, SPD, and DIE LINKE applied for the administration to develop a concept for this decision, an application that was accepted against the votes of CDU, FDP, and AfD.
Delivery vehicles are the only permitted vehicles at Corneliusplatz. However, the car-free initiative for Corneliusplatz may be affected by the lack of enforcement of the new traffic regulation, which could hinder the success of the car-free initiative. The flattened pedestrian ramp at the head of Corneliusplatz is being used for parking, despite the presence of flower pots and benches, further challenging the enforcement efforts.
Continued monitoring and adjustment of enforcement strategies, as well as the possible introduction of additional infrastructure, such as enhanced signage, road markings, or pedestrian priority measures, are planned to maintain or improve compliance. For the most precise and up-to-date figures on compliance rates or detailed enforcement reports, contacting the local traffic authority or municipal office responsible for Corneliusplatz would provide official data.
- The car-free initiative for Corneliusplatz, despite the flattened pedestrian ramp being used for parking, is planned to be maintained or improved through continued monitoring, adjustment of enforcement strategies, and potential introduction of additional infrastructure within the transportation sector.
- In the financial sector, the local traffic authority might allocate resources for the enforcement of the car-free zone at Corneliusplatz, as well as future adjustments and infrastructural developments within the industry, to ensure a high compliance rate with the new regulations.
