Unrestricted entrance to the urban park for individuals of all abilities

After years of struggle, the city park on Otto-Seiling-Promenade has finally seen an improvement in accessibility. A long-standing issue of parked vehicles blocking park entrances has been addressed, making it easier for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility aids, to visit the park.

The problem of blocked park entrances came to light in May 2024, when the Green city councilors proposed a small yet significant measure to improve access. Five months later, in July, the local city council proposed the establishment of a restricted parking area at Otto-Seiling-Promenade to ensure pedestrian access to the Stadtpark.

The initial situation was far from ideal. A roadside parking lot was located right in front of one of the park entrances, making access difficult. Parked vehicles severely impaired the visibility of a sensitive intersection situation due to children rushing out of the park. People with strollers, wheelchairs, or walkers often had to take detours due to blocked park entrances.

Green city councilor Felix Geismann described the initial situation, the improvement, and his satisfaction with the final solution. He recalled observing paramedics balancing equipment, including a stretcher, through a small gap between parked cars.

On July 28th, a ramp for barrier-free access and bike racks were installed to secure the passage. However, small cars were parked on the marked free area a week later. After a brief intervention with the city, two posts were added in the middle between the bike racks to prevent cars from parking in front of the passage.

The passage now provides unimpeded access to the park and has optically upgraded the area with a positive opening into the green. The city park, which is located near a kindergarten and several schools, is once again accessible to all.

Despite the progress made, it took 5 years to implement this small yet impactful measure. Back in October 2020, the Green Party faction had proposed no-parking signs at the level of Goethestraße to keep the park entrance clear for pedestrians. However, there is no new information about the location of these signs or the presence of children, a kindergarten, or schools near the park.

The prompt implementation of this measure was promised, and it seems that the city has delivered on that promise. The Stadtpark on Otto-Seiling-Promenade is now a more accessible and welcoming space for all visitors.