Intersection in Mortsel to become safer after cyclist's death

Mortsel is taking immediate steps to enhance safety at a critical intersection where a cyclist tragically lost her life last week. The city is implementing temporary measures, including clearer road markings, additional pedestrian crossings, and a 30 km/h speed limit zone, while a comprehensive redesign is scheduled for 2028.

The fatal accident occurred at the junction of Oude Godstraat and Molenlei, on the border with Edegem. Following the incident, the Mortsel city council announced that provisional measures would be introduced pending the full reconstruction. "Today, we are already adding extra road markings. Last week's accident has deeply affected us all," said Mayor Michiel Hubeau (Groen).

"We had already done a lot of study work for the thorough redesign of the intersection. This allows us to accelerate the implementation of some measures within the current infrastructure," Hubeau added. The existing markings are being repainted, new crosswalks are being added, and a section of Oude Godstraat will become a 30 km/h zone. This speed limit will apply from the intersection with Molenlei to the intersection with Rombaut Keldermansstraat, following an agreement with the neighboring municipality of Edegem.

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Today, we are already adding extra road markings. Last week's accident has deeply affected us all.

Additionally, a lengthy right-turn lane that currently encroaches on the cyclist's crossing area will be shortened. Part of this lane will be removed to create a wider central median, preventing vehicles from driving over it. This aims to improve safety for pedestrians crossing the road. The intersection, currently characterized by complex traffic movements, will also feature additional traffic calming measures in the future.

The victim, a 54-year-old woman, was on her way to work at the Immaculata care center in Edegem when she was struck by a truck while crossing the street. She died at the scene. Authorities are collecting the dead fish and investigating the exact cause of the incidents.

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We had already done a lot of study work for the thorough redesign of the intersection. This allows us to accelerate the implementation of some measures within the current infrastructure.