E59 Poznań-Szczecin: 2026 Construction Update & Route Map

Poland’s E59 Poznań-Szczecin railway line modernization boosts capacity and speed, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth. This major railway sector news improves passenger and freight transport.

E59 Poznań-Szczecin: 2026 Construction Update & Route Map
March 27, 2020 8:38 pm
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Project Profile: E59 Poznań-Szczecin Line Modernisation

The E59 Railway Line modernisation project has upgraded the 190 km corridor between Poznań and Szczecin, Poland, to contemporary European technical standards. This engineering-led initiative enhances freight capacity and reduces passenger journey times through comprehensive infrastructure renewal and the implementation of the European Train Control System (ETCS), fully integrating the line into the Baltic-Adriatic TEN-T corridor.

AttributeDetails
Project NameE59 Poznań-Szczecin Railway Line Modernisation
LocationWestern Poland, connecting Greater Poland and West Pomeranian Voivodeships
Route LengthApproximately 190 km
Max Operational Speed160 km/h (passenger trains)
Estimated Project Cost~ zl4 billion (approx. €920 million / $1 billion)
Project Status (2026)Operational
Key Contractors & StakeholdersPKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe (Client), Strabag, PORR, Colas Rail Polska, AZD Praha, European Union (CEF), European Investment Bank (EIB)

Technical Specifications

The modernisation of the E59 line involved a complete overhaul of the double-track route. This included the replacement of track superstructure, reinforcement of the subgrade, and renewal of the overhead catenary system to support higher operational speeds. A key structural engineering achievement was the construction of a new 200-meter railway bridge over the Warta River in Wronki, enhancing both capacity and structural resilience.

Signalling and train control systems were upgraded to modern standards with the deployment of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2. This system enables higher line capacity and safety by providing continuous cab signalling and train supervision. The project also focused on enhancing safety by eliminating dozens of road-level crossings, replacing them with new viaducts and underpasses. Throughout the route, stations including Rokietnica, Wronki, Choszczno, and Stargard were fully reconstructed to meet modern accessibility standards, featuring new platforms, shelters, and passenger information systems.

Key Takeaways

  • Strategic Corridor Enhancement: The project eliminates a major bottleneck on the Baltic-Adriatic Core Network Corridor of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), significantly improving international freight logistics between Polish seaports and Southern Europe.
  • Passenger Service Revolution: The upgrade reduces passenger travel time between Poznań and Szczecin to under two hours, making rail a highly competitive alternative to road transport and fostering greater regional mobility.
  • Advanced Technology Implementation: The deployment of ETCS Level 2 across the entire 190 km route represents a significant step in Poland’s digital railway transformation, improving safety, interoperability, and operational efficiency in line with EU standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the modernised E59 line become fully operational?

The modernised E59 railway line between Poznań and Szczecin became fully operational in phases, with final commissioning and full-speed services established by late 2025. The upgrade allows for passenger travel times of under two hours.

Who was responsible for building the modernised E59 line?

The project was managed by PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe, Poland’s national railway infrastructure manager. Construction was executed by a consortium of leading European engineering firms, including Strabag, PORR, and Colas Rail Polska, with signalling systems provided by AZD Praha.