The project
During the consultation and decision on the 2019 priority cycle route network, the route of the "Euregio Cycle Expressway" (RS4), which does not yet exist, was defined as an "important regional cycle connection" for Richterich. Once completed, this will be the best cycle connection between Aachen and Richterich.
Description
At an average speed of 15 km/h, the route can be completed in 17 minutes. In terms of cycle traffic routing, the route essentially has two sections:
2.5 km lead along the main road Roermonder Straße. 1.8 km lead along side roads to Templergraben.
Towards the city (downhill), Roermonder Straße has a cycle path in large sections. When the railroad underpass was rebuilt a few years ago, the ride comfort for cyclists was significantly improved: the red paved cycle path retains its height at all approaches; the approaches have ramp stones and the height offset to the sidewalk is overcome directly at the cycle lane. This is the current design principle for new cycle paths alongside the carriageway.
Out of town (uphill), cycle lanes have been created that may not be used by motor vehicles. Where there was not enough space for this, protective lanes were marked, which can be driven over by motor vehicles to avoid them.
As this is a main road, it will be examined during redesign measures on Roermonder Straße whether structurally separated cycle paths, preferably 2.3 m wide, can be created.
The second section of the route runs in 30 km/h roads up to Grabenring via Henricistraße, Kühlwetterstraße, Kruppstraße, kleine Turmstraße and Wüllnerstraße. The high-speed cycle route, which is planned via Rütscher Straße, would meet the current main cycle route to Richterich at Kruppstraße. Bicycle lanes are to be examined for Henricistraße, Kruppstraße and kleine Turmstraße, which could bring improvements for cycle traffic on this route in the coming years. The existing long-distance bus stop and truck traffic are competing concerns on Henricistraße.
Political consulting
12.09.2019: Consultation in the Mobility Committee (successive implementation of the bicycle priority network commissioned)