The intersection of Lehel Street and Lőportár Street in Angyalföld is increasingly becoming a focal point of concern for local residents due to safety issues stemming from heavy traffic and inadequate pedestrian crossings.

The area, particularly at 7 PM, witnesses a significant flow of vehicles, compounded by the presence of a tram line that bisects the busy road.

Over the past few years, approximately 1,000 new residential units have been constructed on the southern side of Lehel Street, prompting increased foot traffic as residents seek access to services located across the road, including schools, playgrounds, and medical facilities.

Local residents express frustration over the lack of a designated zebra crossing, which they believe is necessary to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.

Anecdotal evidence from observers at the site illustrates a daily occurrence where individuals navigate the two-lane road, often needing to dodge oncoming traffic and tram lines to reach the opposite side.

Residents have been advocating for a crossing since 2018, yet despite recognition of the issue by municipal authorities and developers, little progress has been made, with responsibility being shifted between the local council and the city government.

The XIII District municipality stated that the creation of pedestrian crossings falls within the jurisdiction of the Budapest City Council, which is also responsible for the maintenance of Lehel Street.

They acknowledged the need for a crossing, but did not specify what actions would be taken to address this pressing demand.

In response to inquiries, the Budapest City Council confirmed that the establishment of a traffic light-controlled crossing at this intersection is warranted.

The council cited the rapid development of residential properties in the area as a key factor that necessitates improvements to pedestrian infrastructure, and they are currently in discussions with relevant stakeholders to expedite the process.

However, timelines for the crossing's construction remain unaddressed.

The ongoing situation raises questions about accountability within the urban planning and development processes.

The developer of a nearby residential project, Living, indicated that the requirement for a pedestrian crossing had not been made a condition in the construction permits issued by Budapest Közút, the municipal transit authority.

They assert compliance with all regulatory obligations and claim they are prepared to contribute financially to the construction of the crossing.

Effective urban planning discussions have surfaced around the need for improved regulations that govern the conditions under which developers must contribute to essential public infrastructure.

Officials have critiqued current practices as being overly negotiable rather than standard-based, leading to inadequate public safety measures amidst rapid urban growth.

As traffic volumes continue to rise and new residential developments attract more residents to the area, calls for immediate action to install a pedestrian crossing at the Lehel and Lőportár intersection are intensifying.

Currently, funds allocated for such safety enhancements are limited and prioritized according to district contributions, further complicating timelines for potential crosswalk implementation.

Estimated costs for establishing a pedestrian crossing in Budapest range significantly; average crossings are quoted at approximately 30 million forints, while installations with traffic lights could escalate to between 60 and 80 million forints.

Adding the complexity of tram lines at the intersection could elevate total costs substantially, indicating a potential investment of around 100 million forints necessary for a safe pedestrian solution.

Local authorities have recognized the intricate legal and regulatory framework that currently governs street infrastructure development.

While individuals can privately finance the construction of pedestrian crossings, they must navigate a labyrinth of permissions from both the city council and state authorities, further complicating project timelines and feasibility.