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Noise battle in Königstein: level crossings are defused!
Königstein im Taunus is planning changes to level crossings to reduce noise and is applying for funding for urban development.
Noise battle in Königstein: level crossings are defused!
The future of the town center of Königstein is up for debate, and there is reason to hope for a quieter quality of life in the region. The city council recently set the course for a redesign of two level crossings, which should help reduce the honking of regional train 12. The meeting decided to dismantle the foot crossing in the swimming pool curve, as a suitable underpass already exists nearby. This was received positively by the majority of city councilors - with 25 votes in favor, 5 against and 3 abstentions.
The reasons for this change are both the recurring complaints from residents about noise disruption and the urge to make the city more beautiful and lively. The level crossing on the field path to the waterworks will in future function as a pedestrian crossing with non-technical security. While the “Am Wallgraben” pedestrian crossing remains unchanged, the trains there only honk when they arrive from Königstein. Mayor Wolfgang Gottschalk is satisfied with the changes that have been made, but made it clear that he would also like to continue to secure the “Wallgraben” level crossing.
Noise reduction as a central issue
However, the noise from rail traffic in Königstein remains a major issue. Loudspeaker announcements, horns and operating noises do not make life particularly pleasant for many residents. Complaints about nighttime noise nuisance are particularly prevalent in the Schneidhain local council. This problem has led to the founding of a citizens' initiative that is campaigning for a significant improvement in the noise situation. The possibility of technically securing the pedestrian level crossing near Waldhohlstrasse is currently being discussed, although many question the usefulness of this measure, as already mentioned by David Schahinian in the Frankfurter Neue Presse.
Investments in the future
Another item on the city council's agenda is the heat supply to the new “Whirlwind” daycare center in the “Auf dem Hardtberg” development area. The planned opening for 2026 is an important concern for the city, and the costs for the decentralized heat supply via a heat pump and gas boiler add up to 465,000 euros. This investment is necessary in order to operate the daycare center in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. However, the amendment requesting full use of a heat pump was rejected, leaving room for discussion among city councilors.
In addition to these selective changes, the city of Königstein has also decided to apply for the “Growth and Sustainable Renewal” urban development funding program. Topics such as mobility, the upgrading of public space and an integrated urban development concept play a central role. The majority of city councilors voted in favor of the application, which paves the way for further positive developments.
These exciting developments and the close exchange with the population could make Königstein an even more livable place. It remains to be hoped that the coming measures will both improve the noise situation and contribute to the city's attractiveness.