Pedestrian and Bicycle Path Marquardt-Fahrland: A Mobility Priority in Potsdam

A Mobility Project with a Long Wait

The pedestrian and bicycle path between Fahrland and Marquardt has long been one of the most important demands from the local population and the region's political representatives. The route along the L 92 between Fahrland and B 273 was already included in 2017 as a top priority in the capital city of Potsdam's bicycle traffic concept. However, it was not until April 2026 that the concrete implementation was finalized: The mayor was tasked with ensuring the path's completion by the end of 2028 – if necessary, even without external funding.

Background and Urgency of the Project

Significance for Accessibility and Safety

The planned pedestrian and bicycle path is not only of infrastructural importance, but also has social and climate-related significance. It aims to improve the connection between Marquardt train station and the Krampnitz development area while offering a safe alternative to the currently dangerous route. The existing situation is described by residents and politicians as life-threatening for cyclists and pedestrians.

The road, which has already been transferred from state ownership to the city, is also listed as a planning cost item in the 2026 budget. This provides a largely secure funding base, even if the city has committed to implementing the project without external support.

Decision-Making Process and Political Dynamics

The local council of Fahrland, particularly Tina Lange, has long been a strong advocate for the project. At the meeting on April 22, 2026, an amendment to remove the obligation for regular progress reports to the local council and the Committee for Climate, Environment, and Mobility was unanimously adopted. This highlights that while local politics support the project’s realization, it also seeks to handle administrative processes pragmatically.

The unanimous approval of the motion illustrates the broad support for this project. At the same time, other concerns of the population were also addressed, such as the appointment of a traffic warden at the Regenbogengrund primary school or the installation of speed-measuring devices – issues that also fall within the focus of mobility policy.

Impacts and Perspectives

On Local Traffic

The realization of the pedestrian and bicycle path will not only improve the mobility of residents but also promote the shift to sustainable modes of transport. The route serves as an important link between the train station and residential areas, improving access to public transport and potentially reducing individual car traffic.

On Urban Development

The path is also part of a stronger integration of the districts into the central transportation network. Particularly for the Krampnitz development area, the infrastructure decision is of strategic importance. It underlines Potsdam’s goal of positioning itself as a climate-friendly and traffic-just city.

Conclusion and Outlook

The pedestrian and bicycle path between Fahrland and Marquardt is a milestone in Potsdam’s mobility strategy. The decision to implement the project by the end of 2028 – and that independently of funding – demonstrates determination and prioritization. At the same time, it remains to be seen whether the planning and implementation without external support will indeed proceed smoothly.

In May 2026, the next meeting of the local council will show whether local politics can also achieve progress on other traffic projects. Road safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists will remain central issues that will continue to be relevant beyond April.