Salzburg to Prioritize Pedestrians and cyclists with New Nonntal Traffic Plan
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The city of Salzburg is poised to considerably reshape traffic flow in the inner Nonntal district, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists with a planned “meeting zone” and broader car-free initiatives. A crucial vote is scheduled for this Thursday,October 23,2025,where the planning committee will consider a report that,if approved,will pave the way for changes as early as spring 2026.
Traffic Calming Takes Shape in Nonntal
The ambitious project, initially conceived under the previous governance of ex-mayor Harry Preuner, aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment between Erhardplatz and Petersbrunnstrasse. The core of the plan involves establishing a meeting zone where pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles share the space, with a clear emphasis on environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
According to publicly available plans, the redesign will incorporate “unsealing” of surfaces, the planting of new trees, and the creation of wider walking areas. Within the designated meeting zone – stretching from petersbrunnstrasse to the Funder bakery – the speed limit will be capped at 20 km/h. Furthermore, the city intends to redesign Erhardplatz, effectively eliminating through traffic on the inner Nonntaler Hauptstrasse.Businesses in the area will remain accessible via Petersbrunnstrasse, and cyclists will be permitted to use the route in a one-way direction.
Parking Spaces Reduced to Favor Residents
The transformation will also impact parking availability. Currently, approximately 160 parking spaces exist in the area; this number will be reduced to around 125, with priority given to residents.The city aims to discourage tourist parking, instead focusing on providing loading zones and short-term parking for customers.
Wider City Mobility Plans Under Consideration
The Nonntal project is not occurring in isolation.The NEOS party is advocating for a complete, city-wide mobility plan to connect all traffic calming measures. “A meeting zone in the Nonntal is a good start,” stated local councilor Lukas Rupsch, “But we have to think bigger in Salzburg for a city-wide mobility plan.”
Mayor Bernhard Auinger (SPÖ) has also indicated a desire to expand car-free zones in the old town, specifically in the Neutor area and along the Rudolfskai. One potential solution being explored is a camera-based access system that would restrict entry to authorized vehicles only.
The city intends to test and evaluate the new traffic regulations for a year following their implementation, allowing for adjustments based on real-world data. This phased approach underscores Salzburg’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and livable urban environment.
(Source: salzburg24)
Why: The city of Salzburg is prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists to create a more sustainable and livable urban environment, addressing concerns about traffic congestion and improving quality of life. The project was initially conceived by the previous administration and is now being advanced by current leadership.
Who: Key players include the Salzburg city council,Mayor Bernhard auinger (SPÖ),local councilor Lukas Rupsch (NEOS),and the NEOS party advocating for a city-wide mobility plan. Former Mayor Harry Preuner initially conceived the project. Residents and businesses in the Nonntal district will be directly impacted.
What: The city plans to establish a “meeting zone” in the Nonntal district between Erhardplatz and Petersbrunnstrasse, reducing the speed limit to 20 km/h and redesigning Erhardplatz to eliminate through traffic. Parking spaces will be reduced, prioritizing residents. Wider plans include expanding car-free zones in the old town using camera-based access systems.
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