Tempo 30 in Hernals: SPÖ celebrates victory, ÖVP embarrasses!

Tempo 30 in Hernals: SPÖ celebrates victory, ÖVP embarrasses!

In the district of Hernals, traffic is slowed down: The district council recently decided to convert Jörgerstrasse and the inner Hernalser Hauptstraße into speed 30 zones. The decision was made during a meeting of the district council, where the application of the SPÖ was accepted. This new speed limit applies from Elterleinplatz to the belt.

District head Peter Jagsch supports this step as an answer to the wishes of the residents. He not only sees the measure as a contribution to security, but also as a preparation for the expected construction site traffic through the impending construction work of the U5 subway line, which is to begin in 2026. The SPÖ describes the introduction of the Tempo 30 zone as a pragmatic step to reduce noise and reduce the pollutant emissions.

criticism of the opposition

The decision, however, met with violent criticism of the ÖVP. Manfred Juraczka, chairman of the district ÖVP, described the regulation as the "ideology-driven goose" of the drivers and mockingly asked the question of whether speed 30 should actually accelerate traffic. The ÖVP argues that such blanket speed limits on main traffic routes only lead to more traffic jams and are considered "pure harassment".

The planned subway construction work on Elterleinplatz also has potential for conflict, in particular through the controversial demolition of two Wilhelminian style houses. These plans have already led to protests in the population. Against this background, district leader Jagsch emphasizes the need for traffic calming and the involvement of the citizens to preserve the quality of life in Grätzl.

positive effects of speed 30

International reviews of Tempo 30 zones show positive effects. An investigation in Berlin showed that in around 80 percent of cases the middle speeds dropped significantly after the introduction of Tempo 30, often even without structural measures or radar controls. The analysis is also dedicated to the subjective feeling of residents and general traffic safety.

In Germany, where there are many residential areas Tempo 30 zones, the regulation is carried out by Section 45 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). These zones are mostly located away from main traffic to minimize through traffic and to offer pedestrians and cyclists more security.

The introduction of Tempo 30 zones in Hernals is not only a local event, but also joins a broader trend that is evident in many cities worldwide. The success story of the traffic calming could continue to continue due to the measures adopted in the Hernals district.