Traffic chaos on the A1: Mega construction sites are causing traffic jams until November!

Traffic chaos on the A1: Mega construction sites are causing traffic jams until November!

A look at the A1 motorway near Bliesheim shows that extensive construction work will significantly change the traffic situation in North Rhine-Westphalia from now until the end of November 2025. How News.de Reportedly, several construction sites have been identified along the A1, which, in addition to bridge repair work, also entail a reduction in the passage width. From September 19th, 9:00 a.m. to November 27th, 3:00 p.m., drivers should expect increased traffic volumes and gridlock.

The sections between the Erftstadt junction and Weilerswist-West are particularly affected. Work on the bridge will take place from 9:00 a.m. on September 19th to 3:00 p.m. on November 18th - with a maximum passage width of just 3.75 meters. Restrictions due to construction site activities are also expected in the opposite direction, from Euskirchen to Cologne, from September 23rd to November 27th. The diversions and the reduced speed to 80 km/h could occasionally cause one or two traffic jams.

A large number of construction sites cause chaos

NRW is currently ahead when it comes to construction sites. Loud t-online.de There is a new record of 743 construction sites in the state, which accounts for around two thirds of all highway construction sites in Germany. This will be a challenge for drivers, especially given the increasing number of traffic. Last April there were over 26,000 kilometers of traffic jams, 26 percent more than in the same month last year.

ADAC expert Roman Suthold warns that such construction sites are necessary for the urgent modernization of the ailing motorway network, but a “renovation turbo” is urgently needed. Not only is the number of construction sites increasing, but also the duration of traffic jams, which increased by 20 percent in April 2025.

Detours and tips for commuters

Anyone traveling on the A1 should be prepared for changes. The friendly traffic information services recommend using alternative routes and, if necessary, considering flexible working hours or public transport for the commute. A certain amount of planning can often help to avoid circumstances.

For those directly affected by the construction sites, there are some very specific diversion recommendations, which usually lead via the A255, B75 and B5. Anyone traveling from the north should also consider taking large alternative routes. This is all to minimize the stress of driving.

Overall, North Rhine-Westphalia is facing a period of intensive work that will, to a certain extent, initiate a revival of the old motorway network. However, the annoying risk of traffic jams could be kept to bearable limits with clever planning and a little patience. So stay calm in the car!