Billerbeck citizens tackle: cycle path project picks up speed!

In Billerbeck, around 50 to 60 neighbors are actively involved in the construction of citizenship. On January 3., 2025, local media reported that the work was originally planned to do the work on Saturdays. However, the many helpers who are often active after work are active that enthusiasm is great and the progress quickly progresses. The construction site is organized in two groups in shift work, so that all planned operations could take place even in bad weather conditions.

Particular attention is paid to the meals of the helpers. The "Kottwfrauen team", led by Hedwig Bröker, ensures that the supporters are adequately cared for. Josef Kortüm, who has worked most of the hours, is one of the most active helpers. On a single day of work, a distance of up to 250 meters could be mastered, but the helpers needed a whole week for certain sections of 100 meters.

comprehensive work and funding

The work includes laying sewage pipes, in which the helpers work closely with a specialized company. Additional measures are planned on three other points along the route. In particular, the bridge construction over the Mühlenbach is pending, where the start of construction for February or March is sought. Lutz Wichmann takes responsibility for the gravel orders; Around 18 tons of gravel have already been included in the work. The city of Billerbeck has taken over the tender for further construction work, such as bridge construction and asphalting, which are to be realized in summer. The cooperation with the responsible authorities is smooth.

The financing of these projects is supported by the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia, which provides 350,000 euros per kilometer for the citizens' cycle paths. The remaining costs are covered by donations and the city of Billerbeck. The members of the association are optimistic that the first cyclists can cycle from Billerbeck to Coesfeld in autumn.

The concept of the citizens' cycle paths is not only active in Billerbeck. North Rhine-Westphalia is increasingly relating to local construction companies to realize cycle paths and works closely with the circles and municipalities involved. Initiatives of committed citizens to close gaps in the cycle path network are welcome, and the provision of necessary land by citizens is also welcome. This shows that the community is actively involved in the construction of the cycle paths, which ultimately leads to a more efficient and more networked cycle path network.

as street.nrw announced, citizen cycle paths with a slightly reduced standard can be built, but at the same time meet the current technical and safety -relevant requirements. A pilot project from 2003, the bike path in the Münsterland between Ostenfelde and Oelde, serves as an example of successful implementation of such projects. Overall, several hundred kilometers of citizenship has been created in the rural regions of North Rhine-Westphalia in recent years.