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City council approves cost-benefit analysis for new rail link
The city council of Darmstadt, a city of science, approved a cost-benefit analysis for a potential tram connection from Griesheim-West to Riedstadt at its meeting on Wednesday, January 21. The analysis is considered a key prerequisite for further decisions regarding the project.
Reactivation of disused railway lines is the focus
The Griesheim-Wolfskehlen section of the former railway line between Darmstadt, Griesheim, Wolfskehlen and Riedstadt-Goddelau is among the lines listed by the state of Hesse for potential reactivation for passenger service as part of the "Potential of Disused Lines" working group. The line has been largely disused for some time.
A feasibility study presented in spring 2023 by the Darmstadt-Dieburg public transport authority and the local public transport company of the Groß-Gerau district concluded that a double-track tram line between Griesheim-West and Riedstadt would be more sensible than a traditional railway reactivation. The study explicitly recommended a cost-benefit analysis as the next step to demonstrate the project's eligibility for funding.
Costs and participating partners
To implement the study HEAG mobilo , DADINA, LNVG GG, and the Rhine-Main Transport Association (RMV) signed a cooperation agreement in 2025. The total cost of the cost-benefit analysis is currently estimated at approximately €238,000 gross. It is planned that DADINA will cover 40 percent and LNVG GG 60 percent of the costs.
Foundation for sustainable mobility
Mobility officer Paul Georg Wandrey emphasizes the importance of the study for further planning. It creates the prerequisite for being able to decide on a high-performance, environmentally friendly and future-proof rail connection between Darmstadt, Griesheim and Riedstadt.
A well-connected rail infrastructure helps to attract more people to public transport, reduce car traffic, and thus improve overall traffic flow. Ultimately, all road users benefit from efficient rail connections.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/Stip)
