B3 cycle path between Bensheim and Heppenheim: Start of renovation for avenue character!

B3 cycle path between Bensheim and Heppenheim: Start of renovation for avenue character!

The repair of the cycle path between Bensheim and Heppenheim, along the federal highway B 3, is progressing. The excavators have been in use since July and the work is progressing well. The third construction phase has already begun, in which further parts of the route are being asphalted. As hessen.de reports, the asphalt for the second construction phase and parts of the third construction phase will be laid on Thursday and Friday of next week.

The third construction phase extends over around 370 meters to the entrance to the farm road at the allotment garden settlement. The work there is expected to take around four weeks. During this phase, the existing traffic safety measures will remain active for the next 3 to 4 weeks. The construction work is taking place under partial closure and traffic is regulated by construction site traffic lights. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic will be redirected via the surrounding farm road network.

Cycle path with an avenue character

The planned renovation of the cycle path not only entails thorough repairs, but also gives the route an avenue character with new trees. However, their roots have already caused damage to the asphalt, highlighting the need for a long-term solution. Therefore, the cycle path will be renovated on a high level, which means that it will be raised by around 28 centimeters above its previous level. In front of access roads, the cycle path is lowered to the level of the existing structure in a section of 15 to 20 meters.

Part of the route will be renovated using asphalt construction, while more severely damaged sections will be renovated using concrete construction. The total construction costs of the measure amount to 920,000 euros, with financing secured by the federal government. Hessen Mobil will inform the public separately about further progress in the construction work.

Safety of cyclists

In the meantime, cyclist safety remains an important issue, especially given the winter months, which often cause damage to cycle paths and roads. Potholes and other sources of danger are looming, and cyclists are often more at risk in accidents than drivers. As explained on the ADFC website adfc.de, cyclists should keep a close eye on the following road users in order to be able to avoid safely.

If cycle paths are severely damaged, it is permitted to move onto the road, although this always entails a certain risk. The ADFC therefore appeals to municipalities to repair winter damage promptly and not to neglect the infrastructure for cyclists in favor of car alternatives. Every report of damage sent to the respective municipalities contributes to improving safety for all road users.

The repair project will not only provide a better and safer cycle path, but will also focus on the responsibilities of all road users. Let's stay excited about the progress on the B 3!