Gridlock on Elsenstraße following the unveiling of the A100: fresh strategies for handling traffic
The traffic situation in Friedrichshain and Treptow has become complex due to ongoing construction work on the Elsenbrücke and the Markgrafendamm, resulting in bottlenecks and tailbacks that reach as far as Ostkreuz.
The Elsenbrücke, which has been unstable since 2018 due to cracks in the concrete, is currently only passable in one lane in both directions. The full completion of the bridge is scheduled for 2028. In the meantime, the Berlin Senate's mobility department has announced short-term measures to relieve the Elsenstraße.
One of the measures includes reducing the Autobahn A100 exit traffic to two lanes instead of three, creating space for a dedicated bus lane from Am Treptower Park to Puschkinallee. This bus lane is expected to benefit bus traffic significantly, while individual traffic may still face delays.
Another measure is the closure of the left-turn lane from Markgrafendamm to Alt-Stralau at the Elsenbrücke intersection. This change is aimed at improving traffic flow in the area.
The BVG (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) is continuously monitoring the situation, balancing out delays on lines M43 and 194 with flexible schedules when needed.
Representatives of CDU have warned against hasty decisions regarding the A100 exit, while Senator Ute Bonde has announced gradual adjustments and rejected an immediate closure of the exit.
The Left party, on the other hand, is demanding a temporary closure of the new A100 section until the Elsenbrücke is completed. The Senate is reviewing which measures have proven effective in operation to provide short-term relief in the traffic situation.
Experts emphasize that traffic light systems will need to be adjusted to better manage traffic in the area. The western superstructure of the Elsen Bridge is planned to be completed in mid-October, providing three lanes in each direction. During this time, buses can bypass most of the traffic jam on the Elsenstraße, with minor delays remaining on a short section of about 150 meters.
Plans also include directing traffic from the A100 exit onto only two of the previous three lanes. The new A100 exit is reported to only slightly aggravate the traffic situation in Friedrichshain and Treptow. Some parts of SPD and Greens also support the closure to ensure the mobility of residents and the functionality of public transport.
These measures are set to be implemented soon, aiming for short-term relief of Elsenstraße congestion, especially benefiting bus traffic while individual car traffic may still face delays.
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