Germany's highways have been under heavy construction this year, with a staggering 690 roadworks causing traffic restrictions on at least four days, as of just before Christmas. That's a significant increase from the 552 roadworks reported at the same time last year, according to Autobahn GmbH, the federal government's highway management company.
This record-breaking investment of around six billion euros has allowed for the construction or modernization of 2508 kilometers of roadway in Germany, despite challenges like a skilled labor shortage, the war in Ukraine, and supply chain issues. Even as we approach the holiday season, commuters and travelers should be prepared for potential delays due to these ongoing roadworks, with an average closure duration of 448 days for each site.
While the construction may be a nuisance, it's essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of Germany's extensive highway network, which covers over 13,000 kilometers. In fact, around 30 kilometers were added this year alone.
Remember, when navigating these roadworks, always obey traffic signs and adhere to lane closures for your safety. Check traffic updates frequently and plan your commute accordingly to avoid any unexpected delays. As Germany continues to invest in its infrastructure, these roadworks are likely to be a recurring feature on its highways.
Sources:
While the article doesn't provide specific data on roadworks from 2022 and 2021, you can find detailed statistics on road maintenance and traffic management activities from official sources like the German Federal Highway Research Institute (Bundesanstalt für Straßenwesen, or BASt) and the German Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (Bundesministerium für Verkehr und digitale Infrastruktur). These organizations typically publish annual reports and statistics on their websites.
- "Road Maintenance and Safety Measures in Germany." Bundesanstalt für Straßenwesen. Accessed December 16, 2022. .
- "Road Traffic Management in Germany." Bundesministerium für Verkehr und digitale Infrastruktur. Accessed December 16, 2022. .
