Schleswig-Holstein Invests Heavily in Rail: New Express Route and €887 Million Upgrade
Schleswig-Holstein is embarking on a significant expansion of its rail network, headlined by a new regional express (RE78) service connecting Kiel and Hamburg. This project, alongside a broader investment of €887 million, aims to improve connectivity, increase network resilience, and accommodate future passenger demand.
A Direct Link Between Kiel and Hamburg
The planned RE78 will run from Hamburg via Bad Oldesloe, Bad Segeberg, and Neumünster to Kiel. Crucially, it will establish a direct rail connection between Kiel and Segeberg, a route currently unavailable. The service is also intended to provide an alternative to the heavily used Kiel-Hamburg line via Elmshorn.
Massive Infrastructure Investment
Realizing the RE78 requires substantial infrastructure upgrades. The railway line between Neumünster and Bad Oldesloe will need to be electrified and doubled-tracked. The initial phase of this work is already in the planning stages.
The total cost for the RE78 project is estimated at €400 million. Schleswig-Holstein intends to contribute €80 million from its infrastructure fund, with the remainder sought through federal funding.
Beyond RE78: A Network-Wide Upgrade
The RE78 is just one component of a larger rail investment strategy. Schleswig-Holstein is also funding twelve additional rail projects, bringing the total investment to €887 million. These projects include the reactivation of the Geesthacht-Bergedorf line, a new inner-city station in Flensburg, and improvements to the Kiel-Preetz line. Plans are underway to extend several platforms between Kiel and Hamburg to accommodate longer trains.
Addressing Network Resilience
State Secretary Susanne Henckel emphasized the importance of the investment for network resilience, stating, “With the implementation of this project, we are gaining resilience in the network.” She also expressed confidence in the new regional express’s potential ridership, calling the project “a kind of century project.” Future phases could increase the RE78’s frequency to twice per hour.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Although the state is committed to these improvements, successful implementation relies heavily on the Deutsche Bahn’s ability to deliver. Landtag member Nelly Waldeck has suggested that, if the Deutsche Bahn cannot provide the necessary resources, the state should consider taking ownership of the rail lines and managing the expansion itself. However, the Deutsche Bahn has so far resisted selling rail lines to the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RE78?
The RE78 is a new regional express train service planned between Kiel and Hamburg, via Bad Oldesloe, Bad Segeberg, and Neumünster.
How much will the rail upgrades cost?
The total investment in rail projects is €887 million, with the RE78 project accounting for €400 million.
When is the RE78 expected to be completed?
Completion is currently projected for the early 2030s.
Want to learn more about sustainable transportation initiatives in Germany? Explore our articles on electric vehicle adoption and urban mobility solutions.
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