The German Federal Ministry for Digitalization and Transport has taken the next step in supporting states and municipalities. It has extended the financial aid under the “City and Countryside” special program for cycling infrastructure until 2028, making a total of 1.8 billion euros available.
With the signing of the amendment to the administrative agreement by the states and the availability of 1.8 billion euros, the transition from cars to bicycles can continue to be supported by the federal government and the states in the coming years. This funding will co-finance initiatives such as the development of a safe, seamless, and physically separated cycling network, the provision of modern parking facilities, or the creation of favorable conditions for cargo bikes. The federal government will participate in financing eligible projects with a standard funding rate of up to 75%, while financially weak municipalities and structurally disadvantaged regions can receive up to 90% of eligible expenses.
The high level of interest from states and municipalities in the “City and Countryside” special program is evident in the number of approved measures by the Federal Office for Digitalization, Transport, and Infrastructure (BALM): there are currently 2,371 eligible measures. Through these projects alone, almost 2,000 kilometers of cycle paths and over 55,000 bicycle parking spaces in racks, bicycle boxes, and bicycle parking garages will be installed. Additionally, the program includes the construction of engineering structures (including 225 cycle bridges and underpasses), intersections, and operational measures.
Background: Since 2020, the federal government has been providing financial assistance to states for cycling infrastructure investments through the “City and Countryside” special program, totaling approximately 1.8 billion euros. This financial assistance program is part of the German government’s Climate Action Program 2030. The federal government supports states and municipalities, particularly in promoting economic growth, by establishing a secure, seamlessly planned, and easily usable cycling network. Such a network contributes to sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility, consolidates source-to-destination traffic, reduces traffic congestion, and enhances overall traffic flow. The goal is to make cycling safer and more attractive for cyclists in both urban and rural areas and to encourage a shift from cars to bicycles.
The amendment to the administrative agreement and additional legal regulations can be found on the relevant page of the BALM website.