A speed limit of 30 km / h could "reduce the noise just as effectively or even more effectively than a detour" on all main roads in Weilheim.
This is the result of calculations by the BI “Heimat 2030”.
Weilheim - “Heimat 2030” has calculated with the help of the “noise calculator” of the Verkehrsclub Deutschland (VCD).
The citizens' initiative, which wants to prevent a bypass in the east or west of Weilheim, published the results in an "open letter" and sent them to all city council members.
Probably the most serious impact of traffic on the quality of life is noise pollution, writes "Heimat 2030" in it.
Why one wanted to know how the predicted increase in traffic up to 2035, how east or west variants of a possible detour and how a speed limit (“as an alternative, simple measure”) would affect the average noise pollution on Weilheim's main roads.
The citizens' initiative explains their approach using the “VCD noise calculator” at www.heimat2030.de.
The basis is the figures from the "traffic investigation relief Weilheim", which the State Building Authority had determined in 2017.
Less noise, "almost free"
According to BI, the results of the calculations show for all roads examined that “Tempo 30” would be more or just as effective in terms of noise reduction as the construction of a bypass.
"And all of this virtually free of charge, without complex planning and construction phases, without destroying nature and without burdening residents with new noise elsewhere," writes the initiative.
In addition, such a speed limit increases traffic safety and improves the flow of traffic, as many cities have shown - “also on thoroughfares and federal roads”.
Incentives for switching to bicycles and public transport required
Nevertheless, a noise level like in a quiet residential street cannot be achieved either by bypassing or by setting a speed limit, emphasizes "Heimat 2030".
"In order to reduce the noise further, the traffic load must be reduced, that is, opportunities and incentives must be created to switch to bicycle, bus and train or to switch to your own feet." The BI therefore appeals to the city council members to "stand up for speed limits , safe and fast cycle paths and better public transport ”.
Criticism of the term "relief road"
In addition, the initiative warns politicians against “raising completely unrealistic expectations with suggestive and misleading terms such as 'relief road'”.
Also read:
New push for traffic calming on important roads in Weilheim
