Parts of the park will thus be closed to cyclists from now on. The direct connection from Limpertsberg to Boulevard Prince Henri or Avenue Monterey on the other side of the park has been removed.
Attentive passers-by may have already noticed differences in the signage around the "Kinnekswiss". Some signs indicating that pedestrians and cyclists can use the paths equally are crossed out and new markings have appeared on the ground. Some signs indicate both groups, others are limited to pedestrians.
For cyclists, the new regulations mean that they will now have to take occasional detours. Nevertheless, the capital's bike enthusiasts seem to welcome the changes, with one person stating that they think it is "a great thing", both for pedestrians and cyclists. In the case of the latter, they might even be able to "go a bit faster" if they know they are "not going to run over elderly people, for example, on the way".
Another cyclist explained that weaving in and out of people all the time was "a bit disruptive". They also stressed that for the new system to work, everyone needs to respect it – pedestrians, but "especially cyclists".
A third interviewee also stated that they consider the new markings "a good thing". While they think a separate cycle lane would be even better, they acknowledge that "there is not that much room".
When asked about the changes, pedestrians mainly recalled dangerous situations they have experienced, with one person pointing out that electric bikes in particular are really hard to hear. Merely moving from left to right can already lead to accidents.
Another person expressed their concern about children walking with their parents, and also added that electric bicycles and scooters are hard to hear.
With a few exceptions, the feedback from pedestrians and cyclists is positive.
One person stated that they have never seen any accidents themselves, but if they really occurred frequently, the municipality should remove bikes from the park altogether.
However, there were also people who think the changes go too far, with one person recalling a time in the past when the park was closed to cyclist, requiring them to cross Place de l'Étoile and navigate through traffic. In the same vein, another person said that they do not think that there is "that much of a risk".
A person using a mobility scooter stated that for people like them in particular, the new system is a good solution and ensures the safety of everyone.
