Berlin’s Autobahn 100 expansion draws criticism over climate and traffic

Ahead of the official opening on Wednesday of the new section of Autobahn 100 in Berlin, connecting Neukölln and Treptower Park, politicians and organizations criticized the controversial expansion. "A further expansion of the A 100 is exactly what Berlin does not need," said Verena Graichen of the German Federation for Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND). Several organizations have announced protests.

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Graichen explained that the project would further burden the environment and the climate. She also described it as outdated, noting that in many other cities highways are being removed rather than expanded. "We cannot afford to waste money on concreting new highways," Graichen criticized.

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The organization Robin Wood also demanded that the expansion be stopped. According to their own statements, activists unfurled a protest banner over the A 100 on Wednesday morning. "In view of the escalating climate crisis, highway projects like the A 100 should belong to the past as a total failure both economically and for climate policy," said activist Sylvester Karben. Instead, infrastructure for cycling and public transport should be expanded.

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With the commissioning of the so-called 16th section on Wednesday, there must be an end to "extension fantasies," demanded Antje Kapek, transport policy spokesperson for the Green Party in the Berlin House of Representatives, already on Tuesday. "Every additional meter means more noise, exhaust fumes, and extra traffic for the people," she added. Kapek called for people to be given priority over cars.

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Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) defended the project. "Berlin needs an efficient infrastructure," he said in an interview with Inforadio of Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (RBB). He added that the extension would better connect the eastern part of the city, making areas such as Adlershof and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) more accessible.

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The 3.2-kilometer section is scheduled for its official opening on Wednesday afternoon. Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) is among the guests. Several organizations have announced protests. The ceremony will take place at a nearby hotel rather than on the highway.

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