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Berlin’s Green Promenade Plan Divides Residents Over Parking and Nature

A bold green transformation is coming to Berlin—but at what cost? Locals are split between embracing nature and fighting for their parking spots.

At the bottom of the image there is a road with cars and a bus. Behind them there are buildings...
At the bottom of the image there is a road with cars and a bus. Behind them there are buildings with walls, windows, dish and roofs. And also there are posters and banners to the walls. There is a pole with streetlight.

Berlin’s Green Promenade Plan Divides Residents Over Parking and Nature

The Große-Leege-Straße in Berlin's Alt-Hohenschönhausen district is set for a significant makeover. Led by Green Party traffic councilor Filiz Keküllüoğlu, the project aims to transform the street into a green promenade, sparking debate among residents.

The redesign plans include expanding green spaces and restoring the street's promenade-like character. New seating areas and pedestrian-friendly zones are proposed, along with improved cycling infrastructure. Some residents welcome these changes, citing the need for more green spaces and better cycling paths.

However, not everyone is pleased. Some argue that the street is already green enough and that parking spaces are essential. The project is expected to lose up to 70% of parking spaces, which has been a point of contention among residents. Tatjana, a long-time worker in the area, expresses concern about parking for visitors to the citizen services office.

MLU argues that the proposals do not reflect the reality of how people live in the area, with the street primarily serving as parking space. Sabine, a local resident, finds the project incomprehensible, given the existing green spaces nearby. Maria shares similar sentiments, believing the street is already green enough and that parking spaces are crucial.

Despite the opposition, some residents find the initiative encouraging. Christian, for instance, appreciates the involvement of local residents and suggests exploring how the street could be redesigned with people, not just cars, in mind. Another resident suggests a paved central path to accommodate those who already enjoy strolling along the street.

The redesign of Große-Leege-Straße is set to enhance urban quality of life, with expanded green spaces and improved cycling infrastructure. While some residents welcome these changes, others express concerns about parking shortages. The project continues to spark debate among locals, with the Green Party's Filiz Keküllüoğlu leading the initiative despite criticism.

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