The redesign of the Jungfernstieg is the pilot project on the way to a car-free and more attractive city center. On the initiative of the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing, the Ministry of Transport and Mobility Transition and the Hamburg-Mitte district office, Jungfernstieg and the northern sections of Neuer Wall and Grosse Bleichen were converted into a municipal route in autumn 2020, making them largely car-free.
The central structural element during the first phase was the creation of a green central island, for better and safer crossing possibilities. This measure noticeably improved the quality of stay and traffic safety on Jungfernstieg. The temporary measures of this first phase provided important insights for the further redesign of Jungfernstieg and the surrounding areas. In preparation for the final redesign, a comprehensive evaluation (German) was carried out to ensure the broadest possible participation.
The second phase of the redesign in 2024/2025 will further enhance the Jungfernstieg. The roadway will be significantly narrower, making it easier for pedestrians to cross the Jungfernstieg. There will also be more space for outdoor seating and dining areas and trees. The improved quality of public space should make this special place in the city center more lively and attractive. At the same time, the car-reduced Jungfernstieg contributes to the mobility transition and combines environmental aspects with urban qualities in a very practical and tangible way. The stores on Jungfernstieg will also benefit from this upgrade.
In concrete terms, the redesign has meant that since 2020, only local public transport, cabs, city tours (red lines), loading and delivery traffic (between 9 p.m. and 11 a.m.) and cyclists have been able to use the Jungfernstieg. The exit from Neuer Wall and the entrance to Grosse Bleichen will only be open to cyclists, loading and delivery traffic (between 9 p.m. and 11 a.m.) and emergency services.
From the end of 2024, turning left from Neuer Jungfernstieg onto Jungfernstieg will only be possible for cyclists. The same applies to turning right onto Jungfernstieg from Ballindamm. This will significantly increase traffic calming once again.
This extends the traffic-calmed area from the jetties of the Binnenalster to the first third of the Passagenviertel, significantly improving the quality of life in these streets as well. The accessibility of all parking garages in the city center (including private underground garages) is ensured.
As things stand at present, the final conversion of Jungfernstieg will be largely completed by mid-2025.
