Urban Planning Prioritizing Pedestrians Boosts Health and Livability for All Citizens in Germany
In a world where cars dominate urban landscapes, Germany stands out as a beacon of change. Major cities like Munich and Cologne are setting the standard for pedestrian-friendly cities, with a focus on walkability, cycling, and public transportation.
Germany's cities score highly for the space allocated to pedestrians and cyclists, reflecting prioritized infrastructure that supports non-motorized mobility. Munich, for instance, was the highest-scoring among Germany’s largest cities in 2022 for space for people—indicating ample dedicated walking and cycling infrastructure and lower traffic congestion.
European cities, including those in Germany, typically integrate traffic calming measures, mixed-use neighborhoods, and well-maintained sidewalks that enhance walkability. This makes walking and cycling safer and more convenient compared to most US cities.
In contrast, many American cities struggle with urban forms that prioritize cars, often featuring fragmented zoning and “stroads” (streets that try to be both roads and streets but fail), which complicate both pedestrian and transit use. The US also faces a cultural preference for low-density, car-dependent living, with only about 27% of Americans preferring big-city living—reducing political incentives to invest heavily in pedestrian or transit infrastructure outside of a few urban cores like New York City.
Research and land use studies emphasize that walkable, transit-friendly environments depend on factors such as network connectivity, pedestrian infrastructure quality, and transit-oriented development (TOD), which are more consistently found in German and other European cities. In the US, suburbanization and dispersed employment patterns often increase automobile dependency despite shorter commutes in some cases.
Walking in German cities leads to a healthier lifestyle, is better for the environment, and reduces the need for car ownership. More than 80 percent of Germans enjoy walking, while almost a third of journeys are undertaken on foot. The popularity of 'Wandern' (hiking) and 'Spaziergang machen' (taking a walk) further underscores the German love for walking.
However, not everything is perfect. Construction works in German cities, including Berlin, often cause issues by blocking walkways. Additionally, some underground stations in Berlin's U-Bahn network are not accessible for people with mobility issues.
Despite these challenges, German cities continue to strive for improvement. For example, a section of Friedrichstraße in Mitte, closed off to traffic as part of a trial, reopened in summer 2023 after objections from some local residents.
The author, who enjoys living in Berlin due to its walkable city structure, notes that public transport in Berlin is more accessible and affordable compared to their home country, Scotland. The Deutschlandticket allows for easy travel around Berlin's different neighborhoods by bus, tram, train, or U-Bahn.
Local politics plays a significant role in the development of urban space in German cities. The planned extension of the A100 motorway in Berlin is controversial and expected to proceed.
In summary, Germany leads in creating pedestrian-friendly urban environments and supporting public transportation compared to the US, where car dominance remains prevalent, and urban design often inhibits walkability and transit use.
Science offers insights into why German cities excel in health-and-wellness initiatives, as their focus on walkability and cycling contributes positively to lifestyle choices. Home-and-garden research might explore the potential benefits of designing urban spaces to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, prompting a shift towards a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.
