Chemnitz model

One of the most important transport projects in Saxony is the Chemnitz Model. The aim is to connect the regional centre of Chemnitz and the surrounding region quickly and without transfers. The model builds on historical roots. Chemnitz offers good framework conditions for this project, as the city has a standard-gauge tram network, which enables a connection to the regional railway network.

The project comprises a five-stage plan from stage 0 onwards, with the stages not being realised in chronological order. In the city of Chemnitz, this means that CVAG will continue to expand its tram network, which will be connected to the surrounding railway infrastructure at several interfaces.

Chemnitz model stage 4:

New tram line in the direction of Chemnitz Centre

Since autumn 2020, we have been working with the VMS and the city of Chemnitz to plan the first of a total of three inner-city sections for the new tram line in the direction of Chemnitz-Center. This is being built as part of the joint transport infrastructure project Chemnitz Model Stage 4 to Limbach-Oberfrohna.

Progress in the planning process

Since the beginning of 2024, the so-called draft determination has been available for inspection at the state directorate. This inspection is part of the planning approval process, which is required by law for new tram line construction projects based on the Passenger Transport Act (PBefG). The final aim is to obtain the so-called planning approval decision, which then also grants the right to build the actual new line.

This time is used to advance the implementation planning. Under the German Fee Structure for Architects and Engineers (HOAI), implementation planning is the so-called service phase 5 and thus represents the final planning phase. As the name suggests, the final and actual execution is planned on the basis of the completed design planning. This implementation planning is later handed over to the awarded construction company for the actual construction. For this reason, this service phase is of particular importance. In this phase, we define the final details for the construction of our future tramway operating facilities and the City of Chemnitz, as the road construction authority, defines those for all other traffic facilities, such as pavements, cycle paths and motor vehicle carriageways and traffic lights.

The VMS, City of Chemnitz and CVAG plan to start construction at the beginning of 2026. The time until then will be used intensively to carry out the planning approval procedure and implementation planning, as well as to prepare the awarding of the construction work as the final step before the start of construction. As part of this project, we will not only be able to realise the first part of a new tram line, but also further improve the city centre in terms of urban development and increase the attractiveness of public transport in Chemnitz.

History and next steps

Status: 1 November 2024