Essen’s Urban Transformation: The Return of the CITYBAHN Tramway

After nearly 50 years, the streetcar is set to return to the heart of Essen. The city is currently undergoing a significant transit evolution with the development of the CITYBAHN, a modern tram project designed to reshape urban mobility and connect key districts through an efficient, emission-free network.

A Modern Connection for a Growing City

The CITYBAHN project introduces a new east-west connection spanning a total of 5.5 kilometers. This modern tram line is specifically engineered to link the newly developed ESSEN 51. District directly with the city center. The route will create a continuous connection extending from the west to the east, reaching Essen-Steele.

To ensure comprehensive coverage and accessibility, the project includes the construction of eleven distinct stops. By providing a direct, above-ground connection, the CITYBAHN aims to address long-standing urban challenges, including high levels of traffic congestion caused by commuters and inner-city delivery traffic in the Ruhr area.

Driving the Mobility Transition

Beyond simple transit, the CITYBAHN is a cornerstone of Essen’s broader urban development strategy. By integrating new districts with established hubs, the city is prioritizing sustainable infrastructure to facilitate a smoother “mobility transition.”

“The CITYBAHN is driving the mobility transition forward and promoting urban development by connecting to Essen’s main railway station,” says Martin Harter, Director of Urban Planning and Construction for the City of Essen.

The integration with the Essen Hauptbahnhof (main railway station) is a critical component of the project, ensuring that the new tram line serves as a vital link in the region’s larger transport network.

Project Management and Timeline

The scale of the CITYBAHN requires sophisticated project management and specialized expertise. The consulting firm Drees & Sommer, a specialist in construction, real estate, and infrastructure, is currently supporting both the City of Essen and Ruhrbahn GmbH in managing the project’s implementation.

While significant construction work is already underway—including the third construction phase of the station tangent that began in mid-July 2025—the city is working toward a major milestone. The current objective is to have the new tram service operational by 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Route Length: The CITYBAHN will operate on a 5.5-kilometer modern tram line.
• Connectivity: It connects the ESSEN 51. District to the city center and provides an east-west link to Essen-Steele.
• Infrastructure: The line will feature eleven new stops and connect to the Essen Hauptbahnhof.
• Sustainability: The project provides an emission-free connection to help reduce urban traffic congestion.
• Expected Launch: The service is projected to begin running in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the CITYBAHN project?

The primary goal is to reintroduce streetcars to Essen’s city center to drive the mobility transition, promote urban development, and reduce traffic congestion by connecting the ESSEN 51. District with the city center and Essen-Steele.

How long will the new tram line be?

The new CITYBAHN route will be approximately 5.5 kilometers long.

When will the new tram service be available to the public?

The project is currently in the construction phase, with the goal of starting service in 2026.