Lack of parking space at the Garda ice cream parlor: Regular guests are staying away!

Lack of parking space at the Garda ice cream parlor: Regular guests are staying away!

The “Garda” ice cream parlor in the heart of Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus has recently been struggling with significant changes. Raffaello Zanoni, the operator of the popular ice cream parlor, speaks openly about the effects of the renovation of the Outer Mariahilfer Straße, which began in August of the previous year. During this time, the road was plagued by noise and trucks, severely impacting operations in the area. The renovation not only brought with it structural changes, but also new requirements for outdoor dining, which forced Zanoni to adapt its equipment. A pub garden was only able to reopen in the spring, but under requirements such as uniform parasols without logos and the ban on radiant heaters, which represents a challenge for many businesses.

The changes have a noticeable impact on the ice cream parlor's clientele: the closure of the nearby Intersport garage led to a significant decrease in guests, who often arrive by car. Zanoni reports numerous emails from concerned regular customers telling him that they can no longer come to him due to a lack of parking space. To combat this, he rented three parking spaces in a garage and gave the keys to loyal customers. But the challenges are great: Long detours and one-way streets deter many people, and after 30 years there is a risk of losing your usual customers.

Changes on Mariahilfer Straße

Outer Mariahilfer Straße has changed noticeably in recent years. While Inner Mariahilfer Straße was redesigned into a pedestrian and meeting zone in 2014 - a project that was approved by 53.2% of residents - Outer Mariahilfer Straße is still faced with challenges. The renovation of the inner street has often been viewed as a success over the years, even if vacancies and large construction sites continue to cause discussions. Given the increase in online shopping, many operators believe that the decline in customers is not due to the parking situation, but rather to changing shopping habits that are influenced by new mobility concepts.

On the outer Mariahilfer Straße there is a desire for a more attractive mix of industries and better infrastructure. To revitalize the area, cycle paths, wider sidewalks and greener landscaping are important. The connection between a car-free lifestyle and the stimulation of business is currently being increasingly discussed by transport planners. Prioritizing pedestrian zones and cycle paths could not only promote the health of residents, but also strengthen local retail.

The future of car freedom

The discussion about car-free zones and sustainable means of transport is becoming increasingly important in many cities. “World Carfree Day” is celebrated worldwide and highlights the benefits of less car traffic. Fortunately, surveys show that interest in car-free cities is particularly high in urban areas - especially among younger people. Cities with less car traffic attract more tourists and support important climate goals. Successful examples such as Oslo and Copenhagen show that a reduction in private motorized transport not only promotes health, but also enriches social and economic life.

For Raffaello Zanoni, the outlook remains optimistic despite all the challenges. He plans to stay open until shortly before Christmas and would like to create a new incentive for his customers with an additional display case for pastries. However, his greatest wish remains to reopen the nearby garage in order to breathe more life back into all the shops in the area. In a time of change, many hope that creative solutions will be found to balance the needs of both residents and businesses.