Local governments debate 30 km/h speed limits in Gmund and Schaffhausen

Local governments in Gmund, Germany, and Schaffhausen, Switzerland, are navigating disputes and decisions regarding the implementation of 30 km/h speed limits in urban centers.

In Gmund, the municipal council approved a motion to introduce a 30 km/h limit in the town center with a narrow 10:9 vote. Mayor Alfons Besel cited the need to reduce traffic noise and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, noting that the area handles approximately 14,500 vehicles. The municipality aims to increase the share of bicycle traffic to 12% by 2030. Implementation may involve coordination regarding the B307 and B318 federal roads.

In Schaffhausen, tensions persist following a vote against stricter speed limits on Steigstrasse. Despite the rejection, the city and the canton hold opposing views on the matter, with the city seeking the limits while the canton, police, and public transport experts remain opposed.