Danmarks plass
Square in Bergen, Norway
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Danmarks plass (often written and pronounced as Danmarksplass) is a historic square in Årstad borough in the city of Bergen, Norway. Today, it is most famous as one of Norway's busiest road intersections.
Traffic and air pollution
On average, more than 60,000 vehicles pass through the at-grade intersection at Danmarks plass every day.[1] European route E39, the main road into Bergen from the south, runs through the historic square. Located near the city centre, it is a major thoroughfare for people commuting to work.
Because of the traffic and its location between two hills, Danmarks plass has more air pollution than anywhere else in Bergen.[2]
History
Danmarks plass was originally known as "Kronstadtorget". After World War II, it received its current name in honour of Denmark's humanitarian efforts in Norway during the war. Today, the name is commonly used to also refer to the immediate surroundings of the square, e.g. Krohnsminde kunstgressbane.
Line 1 of the Bergen Light Rail passes through Danmarks plass.[3] The construction of the light rail line and stations, which was started in early 2008, lead to the closure of several lanes on E39.[1]