Luxembourg unveils first cycling streets

The Mayor of Luxembourg City – Mrs Lydie Polfer – was joined by the Alderman for Mobility – Patrick Goldschmidt – in presenting Luxembourg’s first cycling streets on 26 March 2021.

The pilot project represents the first of its kind in Luxembourg and places the capital city as a pioneer in promoting soft mobility. Following the test phase – which runs from 26 March 2021 to the end of September 2021 – the Ville de Luxembourg will evaluate the cycle streets project and decide on a possible extension to other streets in the capital.

According to the Highway Code, on the new cycling streets:

• cyclists have priority over motorised traffic - overtaking is not allowed and motorists are obliged to stop if necessary;
• cyclists can use the full width of the traffic lane;
• the maximum authorized speed is 30 km/h.

Three streets were selected for the pilot project: Rue de Bragance, a section of Rue Laurent Menager and Rue de Pulvermühl. The three locations were strategically selected in order to connect the main axes of cycling circulation within the city.

The starting points and end points of each cycle street are indicated by specific signs and markings on the ground. A map will be made available in the coming weeks which will outline the overall cycling network of approximately 165 km. This includes the new cycle streets, in addition to the national cycling network, and bicycle infrastructure such as parking spaces and shelters, air pump stations and shared bicycle stations (vel’OH! stations).

At the project’s inauguration the Alderman for Mobility outlined the multiple objectives of the pilot project, stating that one aim was to strengthen the cycling network by providing more comfort to cyclists on heavily frequented routes. In addition, the establishment of cycling streets helps to improve cycling safety in urban areas by allowing a better distribution of street space between cyclists and motorised traffic.