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Berlin Sets Out Friedrichstraße Overhaul With Wider Sidewalks, Trees and Slower Traffic

A feasibility study will precede any work, with costs and timing still unspecified.

Overview

  • The CDU-led Senate outlined a redesign for the stretch between Unter den Linden and Schützenstraße that keeps cars but reallocates most space to pedestrians.
  • Sidewalks are slated to take roughly two-thirds of the street as the carriageway narrows to about 7.5 meters, with a target speed of 20–30 km/h and new street trees and seating.
  • On-street parking would be removed, with officials pointing to underused parking garages nearby to absorb displaced spaces.
  • City leaders will set up a project group and commission a feasibility study, leaving funding details and a construction timetable to be determined.
  • Reactions were mixed, with environmental groups welcoming wider footways, Greens backing the direction but faulting missing financing and a broader concept, the AfD voicing skepticism, and safety concerns noted after 49 injury crashes were cited for 2024.