In my experience so far, the public transportation system in Germany has lived up to its reputation (though it is not always as punctual as it would like to claim). The system is extensive, (mostly) reliable, easy to navigate, and offers many options. A regional bus, tram, and/or train station is never far away and always easy to access, and I feel safe and comfortable while riding them. The Deutsche Bahn’s faster ICE and IC trains operate throughout all of Germany in addition to connecting to neighboring countries. Private companies, such as the one that owns FlixBus and FlixTrain, also offer affordable long-distance transportation options throughout all of Europe.
In Heidelberg itself, half of the population reportedly prefers bicycles as a favorite mode of transport, evidenced further by the strong presence of designated bike lanes along streets and sidewalks. With most everything being accessible by foot, I, along with many other inhabitants, primarily walk when moving within the city. Having a car is largely unnecessary, which, in turn, opens up the opportunity to reduce carbon emissions and traffic. This all combines to make Heidelberg an incredibly mobile area.
Well, at least, mobile in one regard.
My accommodation is conveniently located right in the midst of the Heidelberger Old Town (with an excellent view over the Neckar River, I might add), which enabled me to become well-acquainted with the city. However, I noticed something about this city-section very quickly. Many of the buildings in the Old Town are old, beautiful, and even historical, with many under the protection of monument conservation. However, often as a result of their age, the vast majority of buildings have no elevator. Furthermore, they cannot be renovated due to their history and beauty. This realization has led me to consider the balance between modernization and conservation. Of course, the preservation of places with historical significance is important, but so is accessibility, especially in regards to people with disabilities or different mobility needs. For instance, the AJY center is located on the second story of a building, and the house I live in is three stories tall. In both cases, there are a couple of steps even just to reach the building’s entrance, which does not accommodate mobility aids such as a wheelchair. Beyond that, there are staircases but no elevators or other means to reach the upper floors.
I have thought about this delicate balance frequently during my time living in the Old Town. A new quarter of the city is in active development stages, and I hope this is seen as an opportunity to eliminate barriers and make Heidelberg more accessible. But the irony of the seeming juxtaposition when it comes to mobility in Heidelberg has not been lost on me.