Oldenburg's bike-friendliness: Praise and criticism after the ADFC test!

Oldenburg's bike-friendliness: Praise and criticism after the ADFC test!

In the recently published ADFC bicycle climate test, Oldenburg took a respectable third place among cities with 100,000 to 200,000 inhabitants. With an average grade of 3.58, the survey shows that many cyclists feel comfortable in the city. Nevertheless, opinions on cycling infrastructure in Oldenburg are divided. Patrick Buck, a critical observer, notes that the bike paths are in poor condition. “There are a lot of broken and uneven tracks,” he notes. The question remains whether the city can make improvements here.

The ADFC bicycle climate test, in which around 245,000 cyclists were surveyed last year from September to November 2024, shows the satisfaction of cyclists in Germany with the local conditions. The results are on the ADFC website visible and offer municipalities valuable information for improvements in the cycling infrastructure. “The test is now being carried out for the eleventh time and is supported by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport,” adds the official announcement from the ADFC.

Mixed opinions on cycling infrastructure

Despite the positive result, there are significant concerns. Buck criticizes the high car traffic on the bike paths and notes that the city is investing more in “glitzy projects” instead of repairing the existing bike paths. “Residents free” signs are often ignored and controls are inadequate, which could affect the safety of cyclists.

In contrast to this is the opinion of Stefan Simon, who praises the cycling infrastructure in Oldenburg. “The separated cycle paths make cycling here more relaxed and safer than in many other cities,” he says, drawing comparisons to cities like Darmstadt and Offenbach. Simon sees clear progress in the cycle paths, while Buck takes a critical look at the scenario. It becomes clear here that the different perspectives shape the image of bike-friendliness in Oldenburg.

Goals for the future

The survey results are not only important for citizens. The feedback from cyclists is also worth its weight in gold for traffic planning and those responsible on site. The ADFC bicycle climate test offers municipalities the opportunity to implement targeted and necessary changes to the infrastructure.

Interested citizens should note that the next cycling summer is already around the corner: the ADFC bicycle climate test 2024 starts on September 1st. “A good opportunity to contribute your own opinion and thus actively shape the framework conditions for cycling in the city,” says the announcement on the ADFC website. By taking part in the online survey, all cyclists can help ensure that their needs are better heard and taken into account.

The mix of positive and critical voices makes it clear: There is still a lot to do in Oldenburg to further boost cycling traffic. It remains exciting to see how the city will develop in the coming years.