Frankfurt's U5 subway extension breaks ground but faces delays until 2029
Construction has begun on Frankfurt's U5 subway extension along Europa-Allee. The project, managed by Stadtbahn Entwicklung und Verkehrsinfrastrukturprojekte Frankfurt GmbH (SBEV), will add 2.7 kilometres of track to the city's underground network. However, delays and rising costs have pushed completion back to 2029.
The new U5 line starts beneath Platz der Republik and runs underground to Güterplatz station. Four additional stops—Güterplatz, Emser Brücke, Europagarten, and Wohnpark—will serve a growing area expected to house around 30,000 residents and many businesses.
Preparation work has already started, including the relocation of 37 narrow-leaved ash trees. Moved to the Griesheim riverbank since February 17, these trees made way for construction staging areas along Europa-Allee. The left lane of the avenue will also close temporarily, though no two adjacent intersections will be blocked at the same time.
Originally budgeted at €373 million, the project's cost has now risen to roughly €515 million. Procurement issues and increased expenses have contributed to the delay, pushing the opening date from earlier plans to 2029.
Once finished, the U5 extension will improve transport links for a densely populated district. The line's four new stations and expanded route aim to support both residential and commercial growth. For now, construction continues with adjusted timelines and budget allocations.
