Jihlava Railway Line to Face Five-Month Closure for Viaduct and Track Repairs

Passengers traveling on the railway line between Jihlava and Kostelec u Jihlavy in the Czech Republic should prepare for a roughly five-month disruption in 2027. The closure is necessary for extensive repairs to a viaduct and the Vesela headland near the Jihlava railway station.

Project Details and Timeline

The Transport and Energy Building Authority has initiated the permitting process for the reconstruction project, which is slated to begin during the 2027 construction season. During the primary construction phase, traffic towards Jihlava město will be suspended for under five months, with replacement bus services operating between Jihlava and Kostelec u Jihlavy. Shorter, up to two-week, closures are anticipated for traffic heading towards Dobronín and Luka nad Jihlavou.

Key Improvements and Reconstruction Work

A major focus of the project is the replacement of turnout No. 11, which currently restricts train speeds. The reconstruction aims to allow speeds of up to 50 km/h on all tracks by replacing switches No. 11 and 12 with a junction switch [1]. Additional work includes track reconstruction towards Jihlava město, upgrades to two railway crossings (including safety features) and the replacement of security, communication, traction, and high-current distribution equipment.

The viaduct reconstruction will be comprehensive, involving pillar and support injection, arch support structure work, demolition of existing ledges and portions of breast walls, and strengthening of the support structure with a reinforced concrete slab. Waterproof insulation and drainage systems will also be restored, and a new steel railing and traction line poles will be installed. The completed viaduct will meet the required width and track bed outline standards.

Investment and Previous Work

The total estimated cost for the project is 295 million Czech crowns. This follows a previous viaduct reconstruction over the Jihlava River in Jihlava completed last year.

Location Information

Kostelec u Jihlavy is located on the railway lines Jihlava – Tábor and Havlíčkův Brod – Slavonice, and is served by two stations: Kostelec u Jihlavy, and Kostelec u Jihlavy masna [1].