Hackerbrücke car-free

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Hackerbrücke car-free? The current situation

The Hackerbrücke bridge is currently still open to car traffic – albeit with restrictions. Since 2023, it has been part of a traffic experiment or a new regulation: cars are allowed to drive on the bridge, but left turns from Arnulfstraße onto the bridge have been prohibited in order to reduce through traffic.

In Munich city politics (especially among the Greens and the SPD), there are strong efforts to permanently close the bridge to private car traffic. The goal is a so-called “bus and environmental lane.” The CSU and business associations, however, warn of traffic chaos on the already congested Donnersberger Bridge if the Hacker Bridge is no longer available as an alternative route.

The 2027 renovation as a turning point?

The upcoming major renovation starting in 2027 is the decisive factor in this decision. Since the bridge will have to be partially closed to cars anyway during the multi-year construction period, many planners see this as the ideal opportunity for a test run.

There are concrete plans within the city council to keep the bridge closed to general traffic after construction is completed (around 2030). Rumor has it that the city is already conducting internal simulations of how traffic will flow without the bridge.

Why the bridge could become car-free

There are three main arguments in favor of banning cars:

  • Safety for pedestrians and cyclists: The sidewalks are often overcrowded these days, especially during Oktoberfest or in summer at sunset. Without cars, the sidewalks could be widened.
  • Priority for public transport: The buses (e.g., line 153) that cross the bridge are often stuck in traffic. A dedicated bus lane would significantly improve the punctuality of public transport.
  • Quality of life: The bridge is a historical monument and a social meeting place. Without noise and exhaust fumes, the “sunset hotspot” would be significantly enhanced.

Arguments against it: The fear of traffic gridlock.

Critics argue that the Hackerbrücke bridge plays a vital role in relieving traffic congestion in the Westend and Maxvorstadt districts. A closure would mean thousands of cars would have to take additional detours daily via the Altstadtring (Old Town Ring Road) or the Donnersbergerbrücke bridge. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods also fear increased through traffic on their residential streets.

Conclusion: The trend is towards “yes”.

The permanent closure after 2030 has not yet been officially decided. However, it is a fact that from 2027 onwards, the bridge will not be available as a traffic artery for several years – simply because of the construction work. The experience gained during this period will certainly form the basis for the final decision. It is very likely that after the renovation, the bridge will only be open to buses, emergency vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.

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