The city currently sees little room for short-term measures
The city of Darmstadt, a center of science and research, continues to advocate for improved noise protection along the A5 motorway. This was announced in a recent press release from the city, which refers to a resolution passed by the city council in 2023. According to the city, the Heimstättensiedlung, Waldkolonie, and parts of Eberstadt are particularly affected.
In recent months, the city held talks with relevant authorities at the state and federal levels. Subsequently, the federal Autobahn GmbH commissioned a comprehensive study of noise pollution along the A5 motorway in the area of the Heimstättensiedlung housing estate.
Guideline values are adhered to according to calculations
The evaluation showed that the applicable noise limits are being met both during the day and at night. According to Autobahn GmbH, there is therefore currently no legal basis for measures such as speed limits for noise abatement purposes.
The Hessian Ministry of Economic Affairs also confirmed the results of the calculations. According to the studies, due to the greater distance to the motorway, no exceedances of the relevant guideline values are expected in Waldkolonie and Eberstadt either.
Other factors such as wind direction or changes in the condition of the forest were deemed not relevant to the decision regarding possible speed reductions.
Inclusion in federal program is being sought
As a possible option for additional protection, the inclusion of the affected A5 sections in the federal government's voluntary noise abatement program was examined.
Under certain conditions, this program can finance measures such as noise barriers, noise-reducing road surfaces or additional protective measures for buildings.
The science city of Darmstadt has therefore lobbied Autobahn GmbH to include the areas of Heimstättensiedlung, Waldkolonie and Eberstadt in the program.
Implementation currently open
According to Autobahn GmbH, the implementation of potential noise abatement measures follows a nationwide priority list. Factors considered include the number of people affected, the level of noise pollution, and available financial and personnel resources.
Whether and when concrete measures can be implemented along the A5 motorway in the Darmstadt city area is therefore currently unclear.
The city intends to continue its efforts
Environmental officer Michael Kolmer describes the current situation as unsatisfactory from the perspective of health and noise protection. At the same time, the city's options for action are currently largely exhausted.
The science city nevertheless intends to continue advocating for additional noise protection measures along the A5 and to use possible legal changes to achieve improvements for the affected districts.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk/stip)
