City council decides on introduction from 2026 – goal: more space for pedestrians and more peace and quiet on the roads
The city council of Darmstadt, a city of science, decided in its meeting on September 3, 2025, to introduce parking management (PRB) for the Bessungen South district . The system is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2026.
"The area is a densely built-up residential neighborhood with a high population density. Currently, parking situations frequently occur here that make it difficult for pedestrians – especially children and people with reduced mobility – to access and get through, as vehicles are often parked on sidewalks," explained Mobility Officer Paul Georg Wandrey.
Study reveals high parking pressure
A study from 2024 revealed that public parking spaces were between 77 and 91 percent occupied – both during the day and at night. This means the parking area is considered overcrowded. The situation is further exacerbated by displacement effects from adjacent zones such as "BE1" to the north or the car-free Ludwigshöhe district to the south.
“With the introduction of parking management, we are creating more space for pedestrians, especially for children and people with reduced mobility. At the same time, we are ensuring greater fairness, reducing congestion, and contributing to more peaceful mobility in the heavily frequented residential area of Bessungen South,” said Wandrey.
Scope of the new zone
The new parking zone covers the area:
- south of Hermannstrasse
- west of Klappacher Straße
- east of the Donnersbergring
- north of the Lichtenberg School
The parking lot at the Orangery will also be integrated into the concept. The fees are 75 cents per 30 minutes (fee zone II), and the operating hours are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday, with a maximum parking time of four hours.
Residents will soon be able resident parking permits , while visitor permits available for guests. Special regulations – such as weekly passes for the Bessungen market – will remain in effect.
Digital payment possible
A total of around 50 parking ticket machines installed, accepting both cash and debit card payments. Payment via app will also be possible.
The zone will be signposted at all entrances and exits; the machines should be placed in a clearly visible and easily accessible location.
Information for residents
At least four months before the start, all residents, business owners, and tradespeople will be informed via a flyer. Feedback, suggestions, and requests regarding the parking situation can be submitted and will be incorporated into the planning wherever possible.
A reorganization of parking spaces is not planned immediately. It will only be considered once parking pressure has decreased following the introduction of parking management.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
