Upcoming renovation of railway bridge over Delitzscher Landstraße in 2026 to facilitate expanded cycling and tramway routes
The city of Wiederitzsch is set to contribute approximately 350,000 euros to the rebuilding and widening of the railway overpass on Delitzscher Landstraße, scheduled for 2026 and 2027. The project, planned to start in spring 2024, aims to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for vehicles, cyclists, and tram passengers.
Planned Timeline
- The project is scheduled to begin in spring 2024.
- It will take approximately 1.5 years to complete.
- The aim is to have the new overpass finished by the end of 2025.
Project Scope and Impact
The railway bridge will be widened and rebuilt to significantly improve traffic flow. The new overpass will include expanded lanes for motor vehicles. Importantly, separate bike paths are planned to be integrated, enhancing safety and accessibility for cyclists. Additionally, the project will accommodate tram tracks, ensuring smoother tram operations and better public transport service.
Cost and Budget Constraints
The estimated cost of the project is around €20 million. However, budget constraints may influence the final design and features. These limitations could potentially affect the extent and quality of separate bike paths and tram infrastructure incorporated into the project. Municipal authorities are working to secure necessary funding to meet all planned goals but may need to prioritize certain features if budget issues persist.
Consequences
The widening will reduce traffic congestion and improve safety for vehicles, cyclists, and tram passengers. If budget constraints lead to scaling back features, the separate bike paths might receive less space or amenities, potentially impacting cyclist convenience and safety. Delays or phased construction could affect local traffic patterns and public transport in the short term during the rebuilding phase.
In summary, the project is set to improve the overpass substantially by late 2025, with significant benefits for road users, cyclists, and tram services. However, financial limitations may require some compromises. The city's request to increase the clearance for future reorganization of the traffic area under the overpass has been approved, and the city's contribution is expected. The "separation of tram tracks and the reorganization of urban traffic areas between the adjacent LSA nodes Messe-Allee and Südtangente" does not have a timeline due to financial feasibility issues.
During the construction phase, traffic on Delitzscher Landstraße can be guided through the construction site at reduced speed. Four weekend closures are planned for demolition and dismantling operations, coordinated with Leipzig's public transport operators (LVB). A replacement bus service will be established, and a detour concept will be developed and coordinated with the Mobility and Infrastructure Department.
The existing sidewalks and bike paths can be used, although they may be narrowed by excavation pits and protective barriers. The street expansion and the restoration of traffic areas and facilities are utilizing the freed-up space caused by the widening of the underpass. Deutsche Bahn will bear the largest share of the costs, around 1.7 million euros, while the city's contribution is approximately 350,000 euros. In the event of sudden rejection of the previously agreed variant, claims for damages against the city can be expected.
The underpass will be significantly widened to accommodate bike paths and separate tracks. The city's budget is currently standing at around 500,000 euros for the project, but no new information about the cost distribution among the parties involved in the project has been released. The draft for the rebuilding project must still be discussed in the City Development and Construction committee before it goes to the city council for a vote.
The city's contribution of approximately 350,000 euros will aid in the project's financing, which aims to widen and rebuild the railway overpass. The project, scheduled for 2024 to 2025, is not solely focused on road traffic, as it includes separate bike paths and tram tracks, thus involving the industry of transportation as well as the finance sector for funding purposes.
