The city centre is free of traffic congestion, the economy and tourism are doing very well and the quality of life has improved; 10 years after the introduction of the FAAC J275 traffic bollards in the center of Salzburg, we can draw a very positive balance.
The historic centre of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its monasteries, typical houses and alleys attract visitors from all over the world. Until ten years ago, however, the city center attracted attention because of the heavy traffic.
We had created a pedestrian zone, but many drivers did not respect the traffic ban. According to our calculations, 300 unauthorized vehicles entered the historic center every day, parking in the streets and squares, obstructing the passage of pedestrians. That is why in 2009 we decided to introduce a solution to restrict access to authorized vehicles only
Siemens was involved from the very beginning as a partner, together with FAAC.
A total of 36 FAAC J275 traffic bollards were placed at 14 access points to the old town. In order to reduce traffic, access to the delivery vehicles is allowed only early in the morning. Residents, taxis, and even horse gigs drivers received 3500 transmitters to control the bollards themselves. The J275 automatic traffic bollards can be raised and lowered in a few seconds, thus allowing quick.
Our knowledge of the city of Salzburg combined with our technical expertise was very important, especially in the initial phase. We were able to quickly determine the best location for the bollards.
With our automatic bollards we are able to offer excellent traffic control solutions. The bollards can be perfectly integrated into the surrounding environment without ruining the streets and squares from an architectural point of view. This was a crucial aspect for Salzburg, with its wonderful old town.
The partnership between FAAC, Siemens Austria and the City of Salzburg has now lasted for 10 years, thanks to the durability and reliability of FAAC J275 bollards. As a manufacturer, FAAC guarantees the availability of spare parts very quickly. Siemens, as maintenance and service partner of the city of Salzburg, offers an immediate service within one hour. “We have even set up a transport vehicle that has all the necessary spare parts on board,” reports Alexander Kerschbaumer, Project Manager at Siemens.
For the city of Salzburg it is important that bollards are well tolerated by residents and retailers in the center and beyond. At first there was concern that it would not work and that the freedom of citizens would be somewhat restricted. However, this attitude has changed radically over the last ten years, explains Christian Morgner, of the Salzburg Bollard Commission: “Today people cooperate and report unauthorized vehicles that rarely get into the pedestrian zone when the bollards are lowered”.
On the 10th anniversary Thomas Vogel proudly draws his positive conclusions: “Salzburg is a landmark project that we can show worldwide. Not only for our bollards, but especially for the long and trusting cooperation with the city of Salzburg and Siemens Austria. With the right partners, cities can achieve a good balance between the interests of residents, businesses and everyone, thus making urban centers much more efficient. And for our partners, this means lasting partnerships with the municipalities”.
The project leaders take a look at the FAAC J275 bollards at Mozartplatz. From left: Thomas Vogel (General Manager at FAAC GmbH), Christian Morgner (Salzburg Bollard Commission), Ing. Uwe Tilzen (Head of Building Technology in Salzburg at Siemens Austria), Ing. Alexander Kerschbaumer (Project Manager for Siemens AG Austria).
Rathausplatz, Salzburg’s old town. The FAAC bollards blend in gently with the historical sights of the city.
Signs and traffic lights to accompany the most complex accesses.
At Getreidegasse, deliveries are only permitted at specified times. FAAC bollards prevent the unpleasant running of delivery vehicles during shop opening hours.
Authorized vehicles control the bollards at Mozartplatz with transmitters.
Download the City Bollard Tour and take it with you! (only available in German language). See the FAAC J275 bollards in action with your own eyes!
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