Poznań is celebrating the early completion of two significant infrastructure projects, the renovations of Dworcowy Bridge and Starołęka Roundabout, which have been finalised a full two weeks ahead of schedule. This early finish means that trams will resume their normal routes on Monday, 19th August, just in time to accommodate the increase in traffic following the weekend.
Trams Resume Services Ahead of Schedule
The conclusion of these critical renovations is excellent news for residents and visitors alike. The early completion is attributed to the diligent efforts of the contractors and the MPK Poznań track maintenance teams, who worked tirelessly to minimise the disruption to the city’s transport network.
Thanks to the efficiency and commitment of the contractors and MPK track services, the inconveniences caused by the renovation are ending earlier than anticipated. Trams will return to their June routes, ensuring safe, efficient, and fast travel. Now, we can expect several months without major renovations in the city.
Mariusz Wiśniewski, Deputy Mayor of Poznań
Revitalising Decades-Old Infrastructure
The renovations were crucial, especially for Dworcowy Bridge, which had not seen significant repairs or modernisation in over two decades. The tram tracks on the bridge were in dire need of refurbishment, and the completed works now guarantee a more reliable infrastructure for years to come.
Krzysztof Dostatni, President of MPK Poznań, highlighted the importance of the project, stating:
The infrastructure improvements made during these renovations will serve public transport and, most importantly, our passengers for many years. The quality and durability of the infrastructure at both the Dworcowy Bridge and the Starołęka Roundabout have been significantly enhanced.
Extensive Renovation Works
The renovation work at Dworcowy Bridge was comprehensive, including the replacement of the tram track structure, the installation of new tracks, and the construction of new turnouts at the intersection of Dworcowy Bridge with Głogowska and Roosevelta streets. The bridge also received a new road surface within the tram track area, and the switch control system was upgraded. Additionally, significant repairs were carried out on the overhead power lines that supply electricity to the trams.
Similarly, at the Starołęka Roundabout, the southern section of the turnout from Starołęka was replaced, along with the tram crossing within the roundabout area. The track and road surfaces at the intersection of Starołęcka and Forteczna streets were also repaired, ensuring smoother and safer travel for both trams and vehicles.
Improved Accessibility for Key Transport Hubs
The completion of these renovations ahead of schedule will have a positive impact on the city’s public transport, particularly in improving access to key hubs like the Poznań Główny railway station. As Tomasz Łapszewicz, Deputy Director of the Public Transport Authority in Poznań, pointed out:
The early completion of these works allows for the quicker resumption of tram traffic at the Dworcowy junction, which will undoubtedly facilitate passenger movement in this part of Poznań, especially access to Poznań Główny station.
With trams returning to their pre-June routes, commuters can now enjoy more direct and hassle-free journeys, particularly to the Starołęka PKM loop, without the need for multiple transfers.
Changes to Public Transport from 19th August
The reopening of the renovated infrastructure will see several tram and bus lines return to their former routes from 19th August. Notably, tram lines 5, 6, 10, 13, 18, and the night line 201, as well as night bus lines 211, 213, 214, 218, 223, and 224, will resume their routes as they were before the renovations began on 22nd June.
Moreover, tram lines 11, 12, and 17, which were suspended during the renovations, will also return to service. The Public Transport Authority will maintain the summer schedule until 1st September, after which regular schedules will be reinstated.
An additional bus line, 153, which was introduced during the renovation period and received positive feedback from passengers, will continue to operate, providing convenient connections from Unii Lubelskiej to Starołęka, Głuszyna, and Sypniewo.
The early completion of the renovations at Dworcowy Bridge and Starołęka Roundabout marks a significant improvement in Poznań’s public transport infrastructure. As the city gears up for the return of trams and the smooth resumption of regular services, residents and visitors can look forward to more efficient and reliable travel across the city.
