Oldenburg: Traffic Policy in March 2026 – Safety, Renovation, and Stadium Traffic in Focus

Safety for Schoolchildren: Assessments at the Hermann-Ehlers-School

In March 2026, the safety of students at the Hermann-Ehlers-School was at the center of political discussion. The SPD faction requested a comprehensive assessment of whether a school zone could be established in the Feststraße and Straße Am Schießstand. The goal is to reduce motorized individual traffic during school hours and to improve the traffic situation for pedestrians and cyclists.

Additionally, it is being examined whether a one-way traffic regulation could be introduced in the Danziger Straße to optimize traffic flow. Further measures include the improvement of cycling and pedestrian infrastructure as well as the redistribution of space in favor of non-motorized road users. These measures are particularly relevant in 30 km/h zones, where structural elements such as separators and the conversion of parking lanes into sidewalks are being discussed.

Street Renovation: Necessity and Financing

Another central topic was the renovation of the street network in Oldenburg. The CDU faction requested the development of a concept for the use of unused budget funds for road construction projects. The rationale: Many streets are in a critical condition due to weather and potholes, which endangers traffic safety and leads to substantial complaints from citizens.

The administration is to develop a sustainable renovation concept that also improves communication with the public. Furthermore, there is an aim to avoid temporary repairs and warning sign policies in order to find long-term solutions. The prioritization of renovation could result in the postponement of other projects.

Traffic Concept for the Stadium Construction: Criticism and Open Questions

The VCD Oldenburg requested the presentation of the "Traffic Concept for the Stadium Construction at Maastrichter Straße" in the Traffic Committee. The report highlights significant bottlenecks, especially during multiple events at the stadium and the EWE Arena. The quality of traffic is assessed as critical, as several junctions could already be reaching their performance limits.

In addition, detailed investigations into the origin of visitors and their choice of transport are missing. The comprehensibility of the calculations is considered limited due to incomplete data. The impact on public transport and the integration of the zoning plan 821 were also not sufficiently taken into account. Criticism was also expressed regarding the lack of public participation.

Infrastructure at Railway Junctions: Automation and Renovation

The Traffic Committee also dealt with the traffic infrastructure at railway junctions. The level crossing at Am Stadtrand in Ofenerdiek causes strong traffic congestion. As part of a planning process, the barrier system will be automated and the surrounding area will be upgraded. The renovation is planned by Deutsche Bahn and is scheduled to begin in April 2027.

Furthermore, the railway junction in Oldenburg and the damage to the Hunte Bridge were reported on. A resolution for the construction of a new bridge was passed. Likewise, the renovation of the Pferdemarkt Bridge and the construction of a new signal box are necessary. These measures are of great importance for traffic connections in Northern Germany.

Conclusion: Traffic Policy in Motion

March 2026 was an intense month for traffic policy in Oldenburg. The safety of children, the renovation of the street infrastructure, the stadium construction, and the railway connections were in focus. The planned measures show that Oldenburg is working towards a sustainable, safe, and traffic-friendly urban development. Whether these plans will be successfully implemented in practice depends on political will, financial planning, and public participation. In the coming months, it will therefore be important to communicate progress transparently and to actively involve the population.