Streetcar extension to Zwätzen and Löbstedt: construction of the second section begins

The extension of the streetcar line to Zwätzen and Löbstedt is one of the key infrastructure projects for Jena in the coming years. This is a joint project between the city (represented by Kommunalservice Jena) and Jena's public transport system. The plan is to extend the streetcar line from Camburger Straße to Carl-Orff-Straße.

The project was approved in 2017. This was followed by the first construction phase from Camburger Straße to Flurweg. The second section is now beginning. In addition to the actual track work and the construction of new stops, cycle paths are also being built, footpaths widened, new supply lines laid and the junction at Brückenstraße made safe for traffic. These measures will improve the accessibility and development of Jena's northern urban areas.

"After almost two decades of intensive planning and discussions, we are a significant step closer to our important project: the streetcar will reach Jena's 'Himmelreich'. If everything goes according to plan, construction work will begin this year with the aim of completing the line by 2027. By opening up the residential area, we are creating an even better connection between the north and the city and promoting the expansion of sustainable mobility. We are thus offering residents who have been waiting a long time for this connection a direct link to the city center," emphasizes Dirk Lange, Head of Urban Development.

Due to the general price increase in the construction sector as well as adjustments to the planning and process, the costs of the measure have risen from the original EUR 12.4 million to EUR 16.8 million. The financing gap of EUR 4.4 million will be compensated for by accessing a commitment appropriation (anticipation of planned investment in later financial years). Specifically, this relates to the postponement of the planned extension of the pedestrian tunnel at Göschwitz station, which must be decided in the upcoming budget (2027/2028).

The city of Jena and Deutsche Bahn are in close contact on this issue and are working on an optimized solution. The Göschwitz citizens do not support the elimination or replacement of the existing tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists, which is located approx. 300 meters south of Jena-Göschwitz station, in favour of financing the tunnel extension at the station.

Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche explains: "The extension of the pedestrian tunnel in Göschwitz remains an important project for the city. However, as the construction work can only be carried out during a break in rail traffic anyway and the planning process will take three to four years - which, according to the current planning status, can no longer be achieved by 2028 - postponing the project by one year is justifiable."