City approves exemption for the 'Riding Beyond Age' initiative

In a significant move towards enhancing social participation for people with mobility impairments, the city of Guetersloh has granted an official exemption permit to the association "Guetersloh tatkraeftig e.V." for their rikshas to drive in a specific stretch of the pedestrian zone on Berliner Street.

This decision is part of the "Radeln ohne Alter" project, aimed at promoting mobility solutions for the elderly and mobility-impaired individuals. The city's first chairwoman, Monika Paskarbies, stated that the decision addresses the needs of people with mobility impairments without endangering the function of the pedestrian zone.

The rikshas, a traditional form of transport, will be allowed to drive at walking speed in the specified area. It is important to note that this exemption is exclusively for the transport of disabled or mobility-impaired persons. The rikshas are not allowed to transport able-bodied passengers in the pedestrian zone.

The city administration, especially the public order office, carefully examined the association's application before granting the exemption permit. The rikshas are not a permanent addition to the pedestrian zone, but are part of a specific project. They will be operating from August 21, 2025, onwards.

Interested individuals can contact the association "Guetersloh tatkraeftig e.V." directly for a riksha ride. The new rule allows elderly or mobility-impaired people to visit shops and services in the middle part of Berliner Street they might not otherwise reach.

Mayor Matthias Trepper appreciates the association's volunteer work, believing it significantly contributes to social participation in the city. It is worth mentioning that bicycles and e-scooters are still not allowed to use the middle part of Berliner Street between 11 am and 7 pm.

The rikshas will drive on a specific stretch of the pedestrian zone, not the entire area. They are not allowed to drive in the pedestrian zone outside of the specified dates or times. The association's rikshas are not a threat to the pedestrian safety, as they will be operated by trained volunteers.

In conclusion, the city of Guetersloh's decision to allow rikshas in the pedestrian zone is a positive step towards promoting social inclusion and mobility for people with mobility impairments. The rikshas, operated by the association "Guetersloh tatkraeftig e.V.", will provide a valuable piece of participation and joy in life for those who need it most.

City approves exemption for the 'Riding Beyond Age' initiative