New transport agreement approved by Aarhus City Council to improve public transportation and reduce traffic congestion

Public transportation between Malling and downtown Aarhus can be challenging, as noted by resident Kian Kienø. While options exist, they often lack reliability. However, Kienø welcomes a new transport agreement recently passed by a majority in the Aarhus City Council, which aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the city center.

The agreement allocates 250 million Danish kroner for infrastructure improvements, including new bus lanes and the redesign of intersections, which will provide buses with dedicated lanes and enhance travel speed. Additionally, an annual investment of 50 million kroner will ensure that buses operate frequently enough to make schedules less necessary on high-priority routes. This improved service may encourage Kienø to leave his car at home for his commute.

The goal is for half of all car trips to be made in fossil-free vehicles, while still allowing for necessary car access. Nicolaj Bang, the council’s Technical and Environmental officer, emphasized the need to strike a balance between reducing traffic and accommodating drivers.

Local residents, such as Ditte Marie Sørensen, support the reduction of cars in the city but also advocate for easier navigation around Aarhus without relying on a vehicle. Mie Christensen echoed this sentiment, expressing concerns about noise and traffic, especially with children in tow, and expressed hopes for better public transport options.

Despite the agreement’s ambitious plans, some measures—like removing parking spaces and restricting vehicle access on parts of the coastal road—were not included. Cafée owner Carsten Koppelborg voiced concerns, stressing the importance of maintaining access for deliveries and service providers, while warning against making traffic regulations too restrictive. A proposed low-emission zone will limit fossil fuel vehicle access in central Aarhus to about 250 street parking spots.