Construction Woes: Physiotherapy Practice Impacted by Bus Renovations on Berlin's Schäferstraße
Restrictions on Therapeutic Interventions at Wannsee
Ever seen roads blocked off in Berlin? It's a common sight, but for physiotherapist Franka Aurfali, the ongoing construction site in front of her practice in Wannsee is more than an eyesore - it's a business-crippling nuisance.
For a year now, there's been construction and bus chaos in Schäferstraße due to pipeline installation in Chausseestraße. The project was initially scheduled to complete by mid-year, but it's now been extended until August 15. And that's causing significant issues for Aurfali's practice.
No Parking, No Problem...for the Buses
Thanks to the construction, bus line 118 has been rerouted - right past her door. Ironically, there's a "no parking" sign right in front of her practice. "Many of my patients are no longer able to drive and come by car," Aurfali laments. "They need a parking spot nearby. Some don't come anymore because of this."
The district office of Steglitz-Zehlendorf explains, on B.Z.'s request, that the temporary parking spaces closest to the physiotherapy practice were removed to accommodate the buses' turning radius during construction work. three customer parking spaces have vanished.
Frustration Over "No Parking" Sign - "No One Feels Responsible"
Frustrated, Aurfali has penned numerous emails to the district - often without a response. Some replies are evasive: "As a resident, you feel completely alone. I've made suggestions, but nothing comes back. No one feels responsible."
Aurfali's financial situation is strained. "I could hire a new employee in October - but I don't know if I can even keep her busy." Patients cancel appointments because they can't find a parking spot. "It's business-harming," she says.
The district office points to higher authorities: "For this traffic regulation, the Senate Department for Transport is responsible." They have asked the responsible Senate department and the BVG for alternatives to the detour route - the answer was "unfortunately negative."
However, the district office is now examining the feasibility of creating new temporary parking spaces in Schäferstraße's vicinity.
Construction zoning and bus works can wreak havoc not just on business owners, but also on their patients and clients. Here's some advice for navigating these challenges:
Prioritizing Patient Access
- Communicate Changes: Inform your patients about parking restrictions and suggest alternative transportation options.
- Flexible Scheduling: Adjust appointment times to minimize the impact of peak parking demand.
- Contact Local Authorities: Engage with Berlin’s city transport department or the construction project management for updates on parking solutions.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
- Temporary Parking Arrangements: Collaborate with nearby businesses or institutions to create shared parking lots or explore construction-designated parking zones.
- Improved Public Transport Access: Introduce shuttle buses or enhanced bus routes to compensate for limited parking and transport patients from larger parking areas.
- Cycling or E-Scooters: Encourage patients to use bike or e-scooter rentals if feasible.
Long-term Infrastructure Planning
- New Parking Facilities: Advocate for new underground or multi-story parking near Schäferstraße once construction completes.
- Improved Signage: Demand clear, updated signs in the construction area to reduce confusion.
Joining Forces with Local Businesses
- Business Associations: Connect with local business associations to coordinate efforts to mitigate disruptions.
- Community Support: Reach out to the community to generate awareness about the challenges you're facing and gather support for potential solutions.
Although construction and bus changes in Schäferstraße have been challenging for small-business owners, such as physiotherapist Franka Aurfali, it's essential to explore alternative solutions.
Aurfali is looking into temporary parking spaces in Schäferstraße's vicinity to improve her practice's accessibility, following the district office's recent examination of this feasibility.
