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Berlin's Jungfernheide Station Expansion & Siemensbahn Reopening: Cost & Passenger Concerns Spark Controversy

Berlin's ambitious public transport project faces criticism over costs and operational concerns. Despite this, the expansion and reopening are moving forward, promising improved connectivity by 2029.

As we can see in the image there is train, railway track, cars, current poles, trees and sky.
As we can see in the image there is train, railway track, cars, current poles, trees and sky.

Berlin's Jungfernheide Station Expansion & Siemensbahn Reopening: Cost & Passenger Concerns Spark Controversy

The expansion of Jungfernheide station and the reopening of the Siemensbahn are underway, sparking controversy due to cost and passenger concerns. The project, led by an alliance of Deutsche Bahn and S-Bahn Berlin, aims to reactivate the S-Bahn line between Jungfernheide and Gartenfeld, with a provisional opening in 2029.

Nine companies have joined forces in a project management alliance to drive the Siemensbahn's reopening. The new line, S15, is set to initially run between the main station and Gesundbrunnen, with plans to extend it to Blankenburg. However, operational concerns have been raised regarding the length of trains and platforms on the Siemensbahn.

The project involves significant infrastructure work, including rebuilding two Spree bridges and renovating Jungfernheide and Westhafen stations. Additional tracks and platforms will be created to accommodate the new line. Alexander Kaczmarek, the authorized representative of Deutsche Bahn for Berlin, Brandenburg, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, is overseeing the project. The 'Partnership model Rail' is being used to ensure tight scheduling and cost control.

The opening of the second north-south crossing, S21, has been delayed and is now expected in spring 2026. The first groundbreaking for the Siemensbahn reopening is also slated for 2026, with trains running every ten minutes between Jungfernheide and Gartenfeld by 2029.

Despite controversy, the expansion of Jungfernheide station and the reopening of the Siemensbahn are progressing. With careful planning and oversight, the project aims to improve Berlin's public transport network, connecting key areas and providing frequent service by 2029.

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