Frankfurt's U5 Subway Extension to Europaviertel Delayed to 2029
Frankfurt's ambitious U5 subway extension to Europaviertel, a key infrastructure project, has faced significant delays and cost overruns. Initially planned for 2025, the completion is now pushed back to 2029.
The 2.7-kilometer-long route, featuring four stations, is crucial for Frankfurt's growth. However, the project has been heavily impacted by back market conditions, with imbalances in demand and supply for track construction and rail technology. This has led to four cancelled tendering procedures since 2023 due to lack of viable bids.
The project's costs have surged from approximately 373 million euros to around 515 million euros, with Frankfurt initially covering the additional expenses. Despite these challenges, three out of four key trades have been awarded in a second tender round, with around 20 more tenders expected by the end of 2026.
The delays, attributed to back market conditions, repeated tendering, and rising costs, have pushed back the start of above-ground works from 2025 to 2029. The underground section began construction in 2017.
The U5 extension, vital for Frankfurt's infrastructure, has seen significant setbacks. Despite these hurdles, the project continues with three key trades awarded and more tenders pending. The city now aims to complete the extension in 2029, with the additional costs currently borne by Frankfurt.
