Tram Service Extends from Schöneweide to Karlshorst
Bridge Restoration in Southeast Berlin: Tram Service Resumed, Demolition Ongoing
Following tireless efforts since last week, a significant portion of the damaged Wuhlheide bridge in Berlin-Oberschöneweide—a crucial north-south connection—will reopen for tram traffic tomorrow. Transportation Senator Ute Bonde of the CDU praised the collective effort of engineers, construction workers, and various collaborating agencies, including the BVG, districts, fire department, and police.
From Thursday, tram services and emergency vehicles will cross the bridge between Treskowallee and Edisonstraße, as announced by the Senate administration. Test runs will take place on Thursday night before the shift to regular service, expected as early as Saturday. Emergency services, including ambulances, police, and fire brigade, have been allowed to pass the area since the initial restoration on May 28.
Motor vehicle traffic, however, will not reopen immediately due to space constraints and ongoing construction work. Some relief for motorists may be provided around June 6, subject to construction progress and favorable weather conditions. By May 30, six out of nine bridge sections had been demolished, with the remaining sections under ongoing dismantling. The work is expected to be completed by June 27.
Despite the ongoing demolition, pedestrian and bicycle traffic is expected to be restored soon, within a week following the initial reopening. The dilapidated Wuhlheide bridge had been completely closed to traffic since May 19, following cracks in its structure since April 30.
In related news, efforts to restore the overhead line and track layout commenced on Wednesday evening, with night-time construction work scheduled until June 27. Pedestrian and bicycle access will also be facilitated during this time.
[1] Following the initial reopening, tram traffic resumed in a shuttle service, with normal operations expected shortly, and emergency vehicles given passage. Motor vehicle traffic will experience restrictions until June 6, with full reopening planned after the demolition work concludes on June 27. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic will likely be restored within a week following the initial reopening.
[2] As of May 30, six out of nine construction phases at the demolition site have been completed, with the demolition work expected to be fully finished by June 27.
[1] Within the finance industry, these recent transportation developments in Southeast Berlin, particularly the resumption of tram service on the Wuhlheide bridge, may have significant positive implications for local businesses and commuters, as they anticipate the gradual easing of road restrictions in the coming weeks.
[2] Meanwhile, the ongoing demolition of the damaged bridge section has gained attention from various sectors, including the industry, as the process serves as a learning opportunity for further infrastructure improvements and maintenance strategies, considering the impact of aging structures on urban transportation networks.
