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Hochtaunus received a grade of 4 in the bicycle climate test – where is the improvement?
Hochtaunuskreis again received a grade of 4 in the ADFC bicycle climate test. Inadequate bicycle connections and safety problems are the main points of criticism.
Hochtaunus received a grade of 4 in the bicycle climate test – where is the improvement?
In the current ADFC bicycle climate test 2024, the Hochtaunuskreis received a grade of 4, which is considered “sufficient”. This test is now in its eleventh year and is one of the largest bike-friendliness surveys in the world. How FNP reported, over 1,000 citizens took part in the survey in autumn 2024 and evaluated their cycling conditions in the Hochtaunus.
The biggest shortcoming that many of the participants mentioned was the lack of attractive regional cycling connections, especially to larger neighboring towns and the Rhine-Main area. The unsafe cycle paths and dangerous crossings along important connecting roads were also criticized, which, especially in Usinger Land, often have gravel surfaces that pose a risk of falling.
Detailed reviews and developments
The school cycle path network, which is seen as inadequate in many places, particularly with regard to connections to schools, also leaves a worrying impression. The situation looks different in the individual cities: Friedrichsdorf achieved a grade of 3.0 and Wehrheim achieved fewer conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists with a score of 2.6. In contrast, cyclists in Kronberg (3.8) and Königstein (4.1) feel significantly less safe.
In Bad Homburg, for example, the ratings show a slight improvement - the city is now in 38th place out of 113 in the nationwide rating and has improved from a 4.21 (2022) to 3.89. This development is due not least to the redesign of streets and the opening of the Schulberg to bicycle traffic. However, safety aspects such as the width of the cycle paths and the control of illegal parking remain inadequate and are reasons for frequent criticism. Of a total of 229 citizens who commented on the cycling situation in Bad Homburg, many criticized traffic safety and the space for cycling.
Comprehensive findings and nationwide comparisons
What is also particularly striking is the trend that many cities - especially those with a large population - are showing positive developments. The new evaluation formula, which is being promoted with the support of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, also aims to increase the promotion of cycling and actively improve the current situation. However, challenges remain and it remains to be seen whether the situation will change significantly in the next few years.
With a look at the large map of the ADFC bicycle climate test and the various ratings of the individual cities, it becomes clear: there is still a lot of potential for improvement in the air. And while some cities shine as role models, others face the challenge of increasing their cycling friendliness. Finally, it becomes clear that cycling in Hesse still has a lot of potential.