Chaos around Stuttgart 21: Partial opening in 2026 is on the brink!

Chaos around Stuttgart 21: Partial opening in 2026 is on the brink!

The discussion surrounding the Stuttgart 21 project is gaining momentum. While the commissioning of the new underground station was originally scheduled for December 2026, there are now bubbling voices that doubt this date. SWR research shows that a partial opening is more likely in the coming years. After all, it became clear at a special meeting in May 2023 that commissioning was classified as the highest priority. A newly founded task force under the name S21 is working intensively on the different variants for implementing the project.

This task force, which includes representatives from Deutsche Bahn, the state of Baden-Württemberg, the city of Stuttgart and the Stuttgart Region Association, is currently working on three scenarios. The first scenario envisages a full implementation of the original plan, which experts consider unrealistic. Passengers could be severely disadvantaged. The second scenario, on the other hand, speaks of a gradual commissioning, in which a large part of the long-distance traffic went through the new main station, while local traffic remains in the old terminus station. However, the third scenario, a complete postponement of the opening, does not seem to be seriously discussed as no one wants to come up with a further delay.

Growing concerns and demands

The environmental and mobility associations such as VCD, BUND, LNV and Pro Bahn are also keeping an eye on the task force and are calling for some improvements within the framework of the Stuttgart 21 project. Their main concern is to take greater account of the interests of passengers, the environment and the climate. In a press release, they address concerns about operational stability at the Stuttgart rail hub, especially in the final construction phase. The task force's discussions will run until July 18, 2025 and are aimed at clarifying open points regarding commissioning.

Martin Bachhofer from BUND emphasizes the need for gradual commissioning in order to have time for tests and possible improvements. Wolfgang Staiger from Pro Bahn notes that the stability and reliability of train and S-Bahn traffic are essential for successful implementation. The connection of the Gäubahn to the new main station is also viewed critically, as it is considered important as a fallback within the scope of the planning. The associations are demanding several things from the task force: transparent communication at construction sites, reliable commissioning with sufficient test time and maintaining the connection to the Gäubahn without alternative options.

A look into the future

If the project progress is to be believed, a one-year test operation for the new main station will start at the end of 2025. According to Deutsche Bahn, all essential elements of the project, with the exception of the Gäubahn connection via the airport, should be in operation by the end of 2026. The new main station will ultimately replace the old terminus station, and the test trains and trains with passengers will be available at the new platforms.

But the plans are anything but clear. In addition to the current discussion about the European Train Control System (ETCS) safety system, the test phases must also be set realistically in order to avoid load-releasing problems. There are increasing signs that there may not be enough time to clarify all outstanding questions for a gradual commissioning next year. Fears of a chaotic situation in the next year and a half are causing many project managers and passengers to worry.

The next few weeks and months will be crucial. One thing is certain: the Stuttgart 21 project remains a constant topic and the challenges are great. The future of the railway infrastructure in Stuttgart is in full swing, and those involved are called upon to show a good hand.