Postplatz in Dresden: Large construction project brings diversions and innovations!

Postplatz in Dresden: Large construction project brings diversions and innovations!

There will be a lot of work at Postplatz in Dresden from Monday, June 30th to July 21st. The track crossing at this central transport point, which has been exposed to intensive tram traffic for over 20 years, will be completely renovated. According to information from MDR The work is urgently needed because the intersection is badly worn out. A total of 675 meters of rail must be replaced, which together weighs around 60 tons.

However, the construction work is not without its challenges. Postplatz serves as an important public transport hub, especially after the Carola Bridge has been removed. Over 43,000 passengers use the stop every day, an increase of 43 percent compared to before. The pressure to implement the work quickly is correspondingly high. In order to minimize traffic disruption, the construction time was shortened to three weeks and the work is taking place in shifts, including on weekends.

Construction process and diversions

As part of the measures, not only will the track crossing be renewed, but the contact wires and power supply will also be modernized. In addition, an old telecommunications shaft is being renovated and drainage pipes are being dismantled. The total cost of the project is around 1.9 million euros, with a funding request for one million euros being made.

During the construction period, however, it is not just the city that is in motion - passengers also have to adapt to diversions. Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 44, 62 and 68 are affected. This means that stops in front of the Zwinger and the terminus in the Webergasse track loop remain accessible, while Postplatz is closed to car traffic. Drivers are advised to avoid the construction site as far as possible.

The urgent need for investment in the transport sector

The situation at Postplatz reflects a larger picture, which is linked to the results of a study by the German Institute for Urban Studies. The Main Association of the German Construction Industry, the Association of German Transport Companies and the ADAC have determined that investments of around 372 billion euros will be required in the transport sector by 2030 in order to maintain and expand the infrastructure. The condition of many roads, bridges and especially the public transport infrastructure is poor, with a significant need to catch up.

Although public transport, for which infrastructural investments are crucial, is even important for the climate protection goal, there is often a lack of a clear financing basis. The DStGB has therefore presented proposals for a long-term investment fund in order to create planning security and provide the necessary funds.

The construction work on Postplatz is not just a local event, but part of a larger need for investment in the transport structure. It remains to be seen how the new tracks and the infrastructural measures will affect traffic volumes and life in Dresden. Meanwhile, the customer center at Postplatz will remain open during construction work, and alternative stops such as Webergasse, Zwinger and Pirnaischer Platz will remain accessible to passengers.