Project Profile: Angermünde-Szczecin Rail Corridor Modernization

The Angermünde-Szczecin railway upgrade is a strategic infrastructure project designed to double-track, electrify, and implement advanced signaling on a critical 49 km cross-border link between Germany and Poland. This modernization effort is a key component of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), engineered to significantly increase capacity, reduce transit times, and enhance safety for both passenger and freight services on the Berlin-Szczecin corridor.

Technical Specifications

The core of the project involves a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure to meet modern European railway standards. The previously single-track line is being fully double-tracked and electrified with standard overhead lines. This facilitates a substantial increase in both freight and passenger train frequency and eliminates the need for locomotive changes at the border, creating a seamless electric-powered corridor.

A pivotal technological enhancement is the deployment of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2. This advanced, communications-based signaling system replaces conventional trackside signals, allowing for continuous train supervision and higher operational speeds up to 160 km/h. The integration of ETCS L2 significantly boosts safety margins and optimizes track capacity. Civil engineering works include the replacement or upgrade of six railway overpasses, construction of extensive noise barriers, and the comprehensive modernization of five stations: Passow, Casekow, Tantow, Schönow, and Petershagen. The application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been instrumental in coordinating these complex station upgrades efficiently.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic TEN-T Enhancement: The upgrade solidifies a vital link in the TEN-T network, improving the primary rail freight and passenger corridor connecting Scandinavia with Central and Western Europe via Germany and Poland.
• Economic and Passenger Impact: By reducing the Berlin-Szczecin journey time to approximately 90 minutes, the project boosts regional economic integration and cross-border commuter traffic, fostering stronger ties between the two metropolitan areas.
• Commitment to Sustainable Mobility: Full electrification of the line shifts traffic from road to rail, supporting German and EU climate goals by providing a more efficient, lower-emission transportation alternative for both passengers and freight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Angermünde-Szczecin railway line be finished?

The final section of the Angermünde-Szczecin railway upgrade is scheduled for completion in 2026. The project is being delivered in phases, with significant portions of the work already advanced or completed.

Who is building the Angermünde-Szczecin railway upgrade?

The project is a collaborative effort led by Deutsche Bahn (DB). Key construction contracts were awarded to DB Bahnbau Gruppe and KONIGBAU, while the advanced control and safety systems are being supplied and integrated by Thales.