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Ulm main station: Only short partial closures instead of long full closures!
Neu-Ulm: Partial closure of Ulm main station in January 2026 to allow the installation of a new electronic signal box. Learn more!
Ulm main station: Only short partial closures instead of long full closures!
The traffic usage on Ulm main station is facing significant change. Originally, a complete closure of the station was planned from January 13th to February 6th, 2026 in order to replace the old signal box with a modern electronic signal box (ESTW). This would have presented travelers with major challenges and raised questions about a possible rail replacement service.
But those German railway has now announced good news: Instead of the four-week full closure, only short partial closures are planned for around a week in January 2026. Important work is being carried out on switches, tracks and overhead lines, and trains are still allowed to access the station with restrictions. However, it remains uncertain what exact restrictions will actually apply during these partial closures.
A complex undertaking
The exchange to the new signal box is considered extremely complex. Over 1,000 signaling devices have to be reinstalled and approved, which represents a major challenge for the railway. This has already led to protests from the city administration, which feared that the work on the ESTW could overlap with other city construction projects. However, Ulm's mayor Martin Ansbacher was relieved by the railway's decision, as the full closure is no longer necessary.
Transport Minister Winfried Hermann confirmed the need to put the new signal box into operation and emphasized that rail operations can continue with the existing signal box until it is fully implemented. The Pro Bahn passenger association welcomes the decision and sees it as positive that part of the operation can be maintained.
Ulm at a glance
To better understand the reasons and context, it is helpful to take a look at the beautiful city of Ulm. It lies on the eastern edge of the Swabian Jura and extends along the upper reaches of the Danube. Around 129,000 people live here and, together with the neighboring city of Neu-Ulm, form an impressive community of around 190,000 residents. Ulm has an important industrial past and is, among other things, home to the University of Ulm and the Ulm University of Applied Sciences.
The city, founded around 850, has a rich history. Particularly noteworthy is the Ulm Minster, at over 161 meters the tallest church in the world. Historically, Ulm experienced many setbacks during the Thirty Years' War and the Napoleonic Wars, but after World War II, the city and region experienced rapid industrialization and economic growth.
Although Ulm is now busy with a complex construction project, the city is in a good position. The good transport connections, including through international railway corridors, not only save time, but are also a benefit for economic connections. It will be exciting to see how developments will unfold in the coming months.