Radbahn

Radbahn is a visionary Berlin infrastructure project that proposes creating a covered, weather-protected cycling highway beneath the elevated U1 metro line, running approximately nine kilometres from Charlottenburg to Friedrichshain through the heart of the city. The concept transforms the underutilised space beneath the iconic yellow viaduct into a dedicated, all-weather cycling corridor that would enable comfortable year-round bicycle commuting regardless of rain, snow, or extreme heat — addressing one of the key barriers to consistent cycling in Berlin's continental climate. The Radbahn vision extends beyond a simple bike path to encompass an integrated mobility and urban living corridor. Design proposals include integrated lighting, air quality sensors, digital wayfinding systems, green infrastructure elements, community spaces, pop-up markets, co-working areas, and cultural installations along the route, creating a linear urban park that serves cyclists and pedestrians alike. The project has progressed through multiple phases of concept development, public consultation, and feasibility analysis, generating significant public enthusiasm and media attention both within Germany and internationally. A pilot section has been proposed to test the concept in a real urban environment, gathering data on usage patterns, construction techniques, and maintenance requirements. Radbahn exemplifies Berlin's innovative approach to sustainable mobility infrastructure, demonstrating how creative reuse of existing urban structures can generate new cycling capacity without requiring the demolition or reconstruction of street space. The project aligns with Berlin's Mobility Act, which mandates comprehensive cycling infrastructure improvements, and its Gemeinsam Digital smart city strategy. It has inspired similar proposals in other cities exploring protected cycling corridors and demonstrates the power of citizen-initiated urban design concepts in shaping the future of European city infrastructure.