The traffic infrastructure in Luxembourg is designed for cars. For many years, cycling activists have advocated for infrastructure improvements. Daniel Erpelding organizes the monthly critical mass events. The objective of this movement in Luxembourg is to show that cyclists do exist. In other countries, critical mass lobby for better cycle lanes and road safety. In Luxembourg, the movement has only a little number of participants. Daniel Erpelding is happy when the event attracts enough cyclists to be seen at all. In their March event, the group tried out some of the new cycle streets.

Daniel Erpelding says: “We tried the new one in Belair, Rue d’Orange and especially Val Ste. Croix which is for me the most valuable new road; and Rue de Trevires in Bonnevoie.” The seven new Rues cyclables, the cycling roads, in the city of Luxembourg give the absolute priority to cyclists. Cars cannot drive faster than 30 km/h and are not allowed to pass a cycle. “When we rode, we were luckily in a sufficient number – we were around twelve – so that car drivers could see how this works when there is real traffic by bikes. But when I ride on the daily basis, for the moment, I don’t see much difference; one is still doubled by cars, it doesn’t work out.”

For over 20 years, Daniel Erpelding has chosen the bike for his way to work. The situation has improved during this time. “20 years ago, there were no cycling lanes at all”, he says. Nonetheless, there are many places in the city where road safety for cyclists is not guaranteed.

Story from our Local Matters Archive.