In the aftermath of World War II, Berlin seized the opportunity to redefine urban mobility, paving the way for a car-centric cityscape. As the city rebuilt itself, tramlines were removed, and bicycles were sidelined to accommodate the roaring German-engineered cars. This marked the birth of the autogerechte Stadt, or car-friendly city.
Fast forward 80 years, and the vision of individual car transport has regained prominence in the German capital. While cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen embrace eco-friendly policies, critics argue that Berlin is reversing course. Julia Schmitz, a community affairs reporter, recently wrote in Der Tagesspiegel, “It’s not an unreasonable demand that Berlin actively ensures that everyone who is not surrounded by a tonne of metal feels safe in public spaces.”
Current Mobility Policies Under Scrutiny
Despite a low ratio of cars per person and an extensive public transport system, Berlin’s roads remain a battleground for competing interests. The pandemic intensified these divisions, creating a rift within the ruling coalition of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), which also governs at the national level.
The CDU’s electoral victory in 2023 was partly fueled by a backlash against the previous government’s car-critical policies. The debate has taken on cultural dimensions, with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland advocating for motorists’ rights. Berlin’s sprawling city limits, akin to suburbs in other capitals, mean that many voters on the fringes, particularly older Berliners and those from the former East, view cars as symbols of independence and status.
Policy Changes and Public Reaction
Amidst this backdrop, the new government terminated a pilot project to pedestrianize a portion of Friedrichstrasse, a major shopping street in East Berlin. More recently, it announced budget cuts for bike lanes and pedestrian safety in 2026 and 2027, slashing funds from €5.4 million to €2.6 million. Subsidies for bike sharing and speed camera financing are also at risk.
Meanwhile, residential parking permits remain capped at just over €10 per year, a figure unchanged since 2008 and well below administrative costs. In September, speed limits on over 20 busy streets were increased from 30 km/h to 50 km/h after emission-reduction targets were met. Ute Bonde, Berlin’s top transport official from the CDU, stated, “If I don’t have a reason to set out 30 km/h then I’m not allowed to because that’s what German [federal] law stipulates.”
Environmental Initiatives and Challenges
This month, Berlin announced a €3.2 billion initiative to plant 1 million trees by 2040 to absorb emissions. However, experts highlight the irony that rigid road laws may impede progress, requiring zoning permission for each sapling. Giulio Mattioli, a transport researcher at the University of Dortmund, remarked, “I think if we’re talking about this new wave of sustainable transport measures that we see in many cities across Europe, then definitely Berlin is not following those and even working in the other direction.”
Mattioli pointed out that Berlin seems to pursue outdated urban development visions, reminiscent of efforts in Paris and London during the 1980s and 1990s. He referenced the controversial A100 autobahn project, noting, “Among the elites there’s still something of that mindset, while in those other cities things have moved on.”
Infrastructure and Cultural Tensions
Johannes Kraft, a CDU transport expert, argues that the pendulum has swung too far from motorists, emphasizing the need for infrastructure repair. “The goal is to renovate and expand infrastructure for all modes of transport,” he stated at a public hearing, adding, “The car belongs in Berlin. We’re making sure the city functions.”
The redevelopment of Torstrasse, a historic thoroughfare, has become a flashpoint in the debate. Plans to fell mature trees, create a bike lane, and restrict parking spaces have sparked protests and community tensions. Giuseppe Amato, an Italian restaurant owner, expressed concern, “How am I supposed to do business? They’re going to make it boring, that’s my biggest fear.”
Looking Ahead: Balancing Progress and Tradition
As Berlin grapples with its identity and future, the city’s approach to mobility remains a contentious issue. The challenge lies in balancing modern, sustainable transport solutions with the cultural and historical significance of the automobile. With ongoing debates and policy shifts, Berlin’s path forward will likely continue to spark discussion and dissent.
For now, the city stands at a crossroads, navigating the complexities of urban development and environmental responsibility. As Berliners voice their opinions and policymakers weigh their options, the future of mobility in the German capital remains uncertain.
