Vellmar: Despite the risk of flooding – construction of the express cycle path continues!

Vellmar: Despite the risk of flooding – construction of the express cycle path continues!

Things remain exciting in Vellmar! Despite the concerns of some residents on Ihringshäuser Straße about possible flood risks, the construction of the express cycle path along the Ahne, which many cyclists are hoping for, is moving forward happily. These fears that the cycle path could act like a dam and hinder the drainage of rainwater were immediately rejected by the city of Vellmar. A hydraulic study showed that the cycle path is 12.7 cm higher than the original level, but that there is no increased risk of flooding for residents, reports the HNA.

Amid this debate about water and weather, construction work on the bike path continues. The second construction phase is scheduled to be completed by Christmas 2025, weather permitting. The plan is to install the base layer and the asphalt layer before the path can be opened. In addition, measures such as setting up lamp posts, markings and signs will be planned next year to make using the path safer and more pleasant.

Flood protection and nature improvements

An important aspect of the construction work is the close connection with the “100 wild streams” project, which was initiated by the city. The aim is to reduce existing flood risks through advance protective measures. The planned measures include bank flattening, the creation of woody edges and the widening of the channel. The aim is to sustainably improve flood protection for residents.

The new express cycle path is part of a larger vision of mobility development in the region. As early as November 2024, Hesse's Economics and Transport Minister Kaweh Mansoori emphasized the importance of this rapid cycle connection for commuters at an on-site visit. The desired route of 7.5 kilometers between Vellmar and Kassel is intended to promote commuter flows and at the same time ensure safe cycling.

Future prospects for cyclists

In Vellmar, the construction of the first section, which should be at least 3 meters wide, is ensuring progress. Mayor Manfred Ludewig emphasized that the work is on schedule. With a budget of around 1.1 million euros, of which 900,000 euros is funded by the state of Hesse, this section is expected to be completed soon. Planting trees to create shaded areas is also included in the plans to make the path more pleasant and at the same time improve the environment.

The further course of the project also includes the planned redesign of Henschelstrasse, Gottschalkstrasse and Mombachstrasse in Kassel. This is intended to optimize cycling traffic and increase the quality of stay in the adjacent areas. Construction in Kassel is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025. The rapid cycle connection will be expanded gradually, tailored to the needs of cyclists.

As the HNA notes, the combination of sustainable transport development and flood protection is an intense issue in the region. Vellmar and Kassel are taking a pioneering role here and are setting an example towards environmentally friendly mobility. The coming months should remain exciting!

You can find more information about the progress and plans surrounding the rapid cycle connection at HNA and under Nahmobil Hesse.