One of the most important rail projects in Europe
The present rail connection between Stuttgart and Ulm via Plochingen, Göppingen and Geislingen an der Steige has been in operation since 1850 and can no longer cope with the demands of modern rail transport. The Stuttgart-Ulm rail project implemented by Deutsche Bahn AG, the Federal Land of Baden-Württemberg, Verband Region Stuttgart (the Greater Stuttgart Association), the city of Stuttgart, the Federal government and the European Union, is one of the most innovative and comprehensive rail projects in Europe. Fundamental restructuring of the Stuttgart rail node, a new connection to the airport, and the construction of a new high-speed line between Wendlingen (Neckar) and Ulm rank amongst the most important infrastructure projects in Baden-Württemberg. Because of its central location in Europe and its strong export focus, Baden-Württemberg is particularly dependent on fast and efficient transport connections. This project will provide Baden-Württemberg, the Greater Stuttgart Region and the city of Stuttgart with infrastructure which is geared to the demands of the 21st century.
Project segment Stuttgart 21
A total of 60 kilometres of new railway line and three new stations – Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (Stuttgart Main Station), Bahnhof Flughafen/Messe (station at the airport/trade fair centre) and Mittnachtstrasse S-Bahn (rapid transit) station in the new Rosenstein district – will maximise the efficiency of the Stuttgart rail node. Stuttgart Main Station will be converted from a terminus station into a through station. The historic station with its striking passenger building, tower and arcade will be integrated in the new Stuttgart Main Station. The new Bahnhof Flughafen/Messe station will link the region to the south of the city with both long-distance and regional transport routes. This will open up unique prospects for urban development in Stuttgart: a whole new district will arise on a site where the city is currently split in two by railway tracks, creating more space for greenery, new housing and new jobs.
Project segment Wendlingen-Ulm new-build line
The new-build line from Wendlingen (Neckar) to Ulm is the new high-speed line that runs parallel to the A8 motorway, providing a fast and comfortable route across the Swabian Alb mountains and substantially reducing regional, national and international journey times. Moreover, it will provide Baden-Württemberg with a lasting link to the European high-speed rail network.