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Mobility officer Wandrey provides an update on the current status of the work in western Darmstadt
With the construction of the new Rhine Road Bridge, the city of Darmstadt is realizing one of the largest infrastructure projects of recent decades. The existing bridge can no longer withstand today's traffic volume. The new bridge is therefore necessary, but at the same time presents a major challenge for road users and residents in the west of the city.
Mobility officer Paul Georg Wandrey the current quarterly report (04/2025) on the status of the work at the beginning of the year as scheduled, providing information on progress, delays and open consultations.
Incorrectly depicted tree felling in the plan amendment application
The plan amendment application submitted on September 1, 2025, contained an incorrect site plan for the proposed tree felling. The plan in question originated from an early design phase, during which the possibility of constructing a complete bridge structure on-site was still being considered. This option was later rejected because it would have required additional tree felling.
The explanatory notes to the application correctly referenced the 14 tree fellings already approved in documents. The discrepancy between the text and the site plan was identified at the public hearing on September 25, 2025, and clarified with the planning authority. No additional trees are to be felled.
Contrary to other reports, this was merely an erroneous plan , which has since been corrected. This will not affect the schedule.
Additions to the amendment request submitted
During a consultation meeting with the planning authority, the Hessian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy, Transport, Housing and Rural Areas, supplementary documents were requested. These were compiled in the last quarter and submitted December 19, 2025
Approval of the amendment is currently expected in the first half of 2026 .
Planning of the new bridge structure
Following the completion of all contracts, the planning for the new bridge structure will be advanced. The planning is proceeding in parallel with the plan amendment process in order to be able to put the construction work out to tender as quickly as possible.
The current design envisions three bridge structures :
one for tram traffic and two for the roadways, including pedestrian and cycle paths. These are to be installed sequentially in their respective positions. This method allows for a reduction in the structural height of the load-bearing components and ensures a smooth construction process, particularly in the Rheinstraße / Maritim Hotel / Mercedes-Benz area.
The soil investigations at the existing abutments were carried out as planned. Initial, reliable design documents regarding the visual appearance of the new bridge are scheduled to be presented to the public in the first quarter of 2026 .
Supplementary documents for the third amendment request have also been submitted. A decision from the ministry is expected in the first half of 2026.
Coordination with Deutsche Bahn remains critical
Parallel to the structural planning, intensive coordination took place with Deutsche Bahn (DB InfraGO), particularly regarding preparations for the bridge demolition. The aim is to detach the overhead contact line system at the beginning of 2027 and suspend it separately in order to prepare for both the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of the new one.
However, the binding confirmation from Deutsche Bahn for the necessary track closures in 2028 . These closures were registered as a precaution in case the planned corridor renovation was delayed – which has now occurred. Due to the critical importance of these closures, Mobility Officer Wandrey has contacted the Federal Ministry of Transport. Further delays are unacceptable for the city and region, especially given the dilapidated condition of the existing bridge.
More transparency for politics and the public
In addition to the regular quarterly reports, further information will be made available in a consolidated format in the future. City Councillor Wandrey has commissioned the Darmstadt Urban Development Company (DSE) to prepare a comprehensive report for the city council's information. This report will compile the current planning stages and all submitted documents relating to the amendment proposal for the city council and the public.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/ho)
