Western bypass line as rail ring for Frankfurt

The western bypass line (RTW) is an important infrastructure project to serve the increasing Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan and economic region. Due to the constantly growing population and increasing mobility requirements, the local transport is reaching its capacity limits.   

From 2028, the Western bypass line will supplement the urban and regional transport network for almost 6 million people in the Rhine-Main region, in particular by improving transport links to the western districts of Frankfurt am Main and Frankfurt Airport. As a key project for improving the light rail infrastructure, it aims to optimize regional accessibility and minimize transfer processes in Frankfurt.  

A key part of the project is the South 1 line section, which extends 16.5 kilometers from Kelsterbach to Dreieich-Buchschlag. South 1 will feature 17 bridges and 6 stops, which will play a crucial role in improving public transportation in the region. 

The complex project requires close collaboration between various stakeholders. Since 2009, together with our partner companies Schüßler-Plan and Sweco, we have been significantly involved in the design, as-built surveying, environmental planning and geotechnical consulting for the entire line. In addition, construction supervision is carried out for various sections of the route infrastructure to ensure a smooth construction process and compliance with the high quality standards.   

A large number of different services are required to realize this infrastructure project, including the construction of new track systems, platform facilities and nonbuilding structures at various locations along the route, such as Frankfurt-Stadium station, Mörfelder Landstraße and Neu-Isenburg station. On top of that, an impressive tied-arch bridge was installed in May 2024. With a length of 113 metres, a weight of 1,300 tonnes and a height of 18 metres, this bridge structure carries the new Western bypass line over the existing track system.

Additional important steps for successful project implementation include the construction of overhead line equipment and control-command and signaling systems as well as the implementation of noise-control measures.  

The Western bypass is the first step in creating a rail ring around Frankfurt. The construction of new rail lines, bridges and stations as well as the modernization of existing infrastructure will significantly reduce travel times for the approximately 450,000 passengers who travel within Frankfurt every day.