Mobility in Lüneburg: Bicycle Infrastructure, Traffic Calming, and Future Visions

Mobility in Lüneburg: Bicycle Infrastructure, Traffic Calming, and Future Visions

The city of Lüneburg has addressed a range of measures in the field of mobility in April 2026, which will have both short- and long-term effects on the transport system and the quality of life for its citizens. The focus was on the development of a high-performance bicycle traffic infrastructure, traffic calming in central areas, and the implementation of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (NUMP). These measures are not only part of local transport planning but also a step toward climate protection and sustainable urban development.

Expansion of Bicycle Traffic Infrastructure

Lüneburg is consistently relying on cycling as a central element of its mobility strategy. The Cycling Ring Lüneburg is a key project that was further planned in April 2026. The section Marienplatz, Am Ochsenmarkt, including the Bardowicker Straße, will be expanded as part of the bicycle traffic strategy. The redesign of „Am Ochsenmarkt“ is planned as a bicycle street with a cross-section of 8.00 m, with the road surface being 5.00 m and the multifunctional strip 3.00 m wide.

These measures are part of the Bicycle Traffic Strategy 2035, which includes 44 construction and 15 traffic-related measures. The previous strategy for 2025, which included 105 measures, has largely been implemented or is currently in progress. Of these, 34 measures have been realized, 13 are in implementation, 20 have been discarded, and 38 have not yet been implemented.

Another project is the reconstruction of the star intersection, which was decided upon in April. The aim is to optimize bicycle and pedestrian traffic, with sidewalks and cycle paths being significantly widened. In addition, green strips will create a spatial separation between pedestrians and cyclists. The cost of the reconstruction amounts to 3.8 million euros, of which 2 million euros will be provided from the state budget.

Traffic Calming and Modal Filters

Another focus of mobility planning in Lüneburg is traffic calming, especially in central residential areas. In the districts Roten Feld and Thorner Straße, modal filters are planned, which will limit the inflow of car traffic and promote pedestrian and bicycle traffic. In addition, bollard systems will be installed in several streets to improve safety and the environmental balance.

These measures are part of the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (NUMP), which serves as a strategic instrument for climate-friendly and barrier-free mobility. The goal of the NUMP is to increase the modal split to 70% for walking, cycling, and public transport. This includes barrier-free street crossings and the strengthening of winter services for cyclists and pedestrians.

Integration of Public Transport

In the area of local public transport (ÖPNV), concrete measures are also planned. The reactivation of the Soltau–Lüneburg railway line is a milestone planned for 2028. Along with the railway line, charging infrastructure for e-bikes and e-cars will be constructed, as well as sharing stations at platforms. In addition, a cooperation agreement with SinON GmbH is planned to strengthen public transport.

Another project is the improvement of the train station forecourt, which will be redesigned in 2027. The aim is to improve safety, barrier-free access, and the quality of stay. This includes tactile guidance elements, trees, seating, and better lighting. These measures are also planned as part of the NUMP.

Outlook and Challenges

Mobility planning in Lüneburg is in a dynamic phase. With the implementation of the Bicycle Traffic Strategy 2035 and the reactivation of the Soltau–Lüneburg railway line, the city will be significantly redesigned in the coming years. At the same time, funding remains a decisive factor for the implementation of the projects. Not all measures can be realized due to cost-benefit ratios, leading to compromises.

In addition, public participation is a central aspect. The city plans to place more emphasis on dialogue and transparency in the coming years to increase the acceptance of the measures. This also includes information events, where citizens are informed about the planning.

Lüneburg has set a clear course toward sustainable mobility with the decisions of April 2026. The implementation of these measures will not only improve the traffic situation but also increase the quality of life for citizens and promote climate protection.