The municipal council of Wohlen has formally requested the Canton of Bern to reduce the speed limit on Murzelenstrasse from 80 kilometers per hour to 60 kilometers per hour. This request aims to enhance safety for schoolchildren and hikers in the area between Weihermatt and Sandbühl, marking another effort by the council to address traffic concerns on this specific road.
Key Takeaways
- Wohlen Council requests speed limit reduction on Murzelenstrasse.
- Proposed change is from 80 km/h to 60 km/h.
- Safety concerns for schoolchildren and hikers are the primary reasons.
- A similar request was denied in 2021.
- Säriswil residents also seek traffic safety improvements.
Renewed Efforts for Road Safety
The decision to submit this new request was made by the Wohlen municipal council on Monday. This is not the first time the council has sought to implement traffic calming measures on Murzelenstrasse. A previous request submitted in 2021 was rejected by the cantonal authorities.
According to the municipality, parents' councils have consistently highlighted the dangers faced by schoolchildren. These children travel daily from Innerberg to the Murzelen schoolhouse, often encountering high-speed traffic on the road. The current speed limit of 80 km/h is considered too high for this route, especially given the presence of young pedestrians.
Fact: Speed and Safety
Reducing vehicle speed directly impacts pedestrian safety. Studies show that a pedestrian's risk of severe injury or death decreases significantly with lower vehicle speeds. For example, the risk of a pedestrian dying when hit by a car traveling at 80 km/h is substantially higher than at 60 km/h.
New Pedestrian Crossing Adds Urgency
A new factor contributing to the urgency of the council's request is the planned establishment of a hiking trail. This trail will eventually cross Murzelenstrasse, increasing pedestrian traffic in an already sensitive area. The municipal council believes that the existing speed limit poses an unacceptable risk to both schoolchildren and future hikers.
The intersection of a busy road with a new pedestrian path necessitates a reassessment of traffic regulations. The council hopes that this additional safety argument will strengthen their case with the Canton of Bern.
"The safety of our children and residents is paramount. The current speed limit on Murzelenstrasse is no longer appropriate, especially with the upcoming hiking trail. We must ensure a safe environment for everyone," stated a representative from the Wohlen municipal council.
Community Concerns Drive Action
The concerns from parents' councils have been ongoing for several years. These groups have consistently advocated for a safer route for students. Their persistent efforts have played a significant role in the municipal council's renewed push for a speed reduction.
The stretch of Murzelenstrasse between Weihermatt and Sandbühl is a key area for these safety concerns. It serves as a vital link for local residents and schoolchildren alike. Ensuring their well-being on this road is a top priority for local authorities.
Background on Cantonal Roads
In Switzerland, speed limits on cantonal roads are typically set by the cantonal authorities, not directly by local municipalities. Municipal councils must submit formal requests to the canton to propose changes. This process involves traffic assessments and a review of safety justifications.
Säriswil Also Seeks Traffic Review
Wohlen is not the only community in the region addressing traffic safety. Residents in Säriswil have also called for increased safety measures on the cantonal road within their village. In response to these demands, the Wohlen municipal council has requested a traffic assessment from the canton.
This assessment will examine the feasibility of reducing the speed limit on the cantonal road in Säriswil. The request highlights a broader trend across local communities to improve road safety, particularly in areas with significant pedestrian activity.
The Role of Traffic Assessments
Traffic assessments are crucial in evaluating proposed speed limit changes. These studies analyze traffic volume, road design, accident history, and pedestrian presence. The findings help cantonal authorities make informed decisions about road safety improvements.
- Traffic Volume: How many vehicles use the road daily?
- Road Design: Are there sharp curves, limited visibility, or narrow sections?
- Accident History: Have there been previous accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists?
- Pedestrian Presence: How many people walk or cycle along or across the road?
- Local Infrastructure: Are there schools, bus stops, or public facilities nearby?
The Wohlen council's repeated attempts underscore the importance of local road safety. Their current request, bolstered by the planned hiking trail, represents a comprehensive approach to protecting vulnerable road users.
The outcome of this request will have a direct impact on the daily lives of many residents. It will also set a precedent for how similar safety concerns are addressed in other communities within the Canton of Bern.