Cities, SI-Urban
Cable Car as an Alternative to the Regional Tangent East?
The debate over the Regional Tangent East (RTO) continues to cause tensions in the German metropolis of Frankfurt am Main, particularly in the Bergen-Enkheim district.
Variant 1, which has so far been favored by the city, is criticized for its impact on nature conservation areas, noise pollution, and the construction over the Riedbad. However, the local SPD does not categorically reject the project but instead proposes an alternative: a cable car.
As reported by the Frankfurter Neue Presse (FNP), local SPD representatives Aljoscha Ziller and Adi Schubert see the cable car as a realistic solution to better connect Bergen-Enkheim to public transportation.
The elevation differences between Bergen, Enkheim, and Seckbach could be efficiently overcome with a cable car, which would also be quieter, more environmentally friendly, and less prone to disruptions than conventional modes of transport like subways or trains.
Why a Cable Car?
Cable cars, primarily associated with mountainous regions, are increasingly being used in urban public transport. Cities like Barcelona or Koblenz have set an example, and analyses by the auditing firm PwC regard cable cars as an “innovative solution.”
They can transport up to 6,000 passengers per hour—comparable to a subway—and offer significantly higher capacity compared to trams or buses.
Additionally, cable cars are relatively cost-effective and quick to implement. Tunnels or bridges are unnecessary, and construction time ranges from 12 to 18 months. By comparison, subway projects often take decades.
Disadvantages such as weather dependency and lower speeds must be considered, according to the SPD, but in their view, the advantages clearly outweigh these drawbacks.
Cable Cars Conquer Urban Public Transport
Already successfully in use in cities like Barcelona and Koblenz, cable cars could also offer a sustainable solution to traffic problems in Bergen-Enkheim.
Three Route Variants Under Discussion
The SPD proposes three potential routes to address different needs:
- Bergen – Gwinnerstraße to U4/U7: This route would directly connect to the subway, better integrating the district into the network.
- Bergen-Ost – Riedbad: Combined with a subway extension, this connection could provide long-term relief.
- Bergen – Atzelberg: This variant could be combined with the planned subway extension to Atzelbergplatz.
Quick Solution for Current Problems
For the SPD, the cable car is particularly appealing because it could be implemented quickly. “The RTO might only be completed in 30 to 40 years. But we need a solution now for Bergen’s poor connectivity,” emphasizes Ziller.
The Marktstraße in Bergen-Enkheim is also suffering from heavy bus traffic. A cable car could provide much-needed relief here.
Starting Point for a Discussion
The SPD sees its proposal as a thought-provoking suggestion. “The worst outcome would be if Bergen-Enkheim rejects the RTO and is completely left out of public transport expansion,” warns Ziller.
With the cable car, the SPD aims to initiate a debate to find alternative solutions and better connect the district to public transport.
Whether the cable car will be seriously considered as an option remains open. However, as reported by the FNP, it could offer a quick, environmentally friendly, and innovative response to the traffic problems in Bergen-Enkheim.
