Soltau Reactivates Lüneburg-Soltau Railway Line in 2027 to Boost Mobility
The city of Soltau is planning to reactivate the Lüneburg-Soltau railway line, with operations set to begin in 2027. This move aims to improve mobility and strengthen public transport in the Heidekreis region, as welcomed by State parliamentarian Sebastian Zinke. However, concerns have been raised about potential traffic congestion and barrier shift times, particularly on the Walsroder Straße.
To address the barrier closing times problem at Straße Am Bahnhof, the city is exploring a solution that involves coordinating and optimizing railway crossing schedules. This is part of the renewal of the Lüneburg-Soltau railway line and the planned expansion of the Amerikalinie in the 2030s. Initially, diesel locomotives will be used, transitioning to new battery-powered trains after electrification.
First Mayor Karsten Lemke has warned that no solution for the traffic issues has been included in any project yet. He fears that the additional traffic will cause chaos, with vehicles queuing up to the Rathauskreuzung. Lemke believes that a new underpass at the Straße Am Bahnhof would be necessary but is concerned that it may exceed any cost-benefit calculation. Zinke, however, emphasizes the importance of keeping to the ambitious schedule to avoid delays and has called for swift clarification of open questions about a further stop in the Heidekreis and the problematic situation at railway crossings in Soltau.
The reactivation of the Lüneburg-Soltau railway line is expected to bring significant benefits to the Heidekreis region. However, the city of Soltau and its officials are working to address potential traffic concerns and ensure a smooth implementation of the project, with a focus on maintaining the ambitious schedule.
