With the expansion, we want to increase the efficiency of the junctions. This means that more cars should be able to pass through the junctions in the same amount of time. The specific space required for increasing the number of lanes will be determined in the upcoming design planning. Various forms of expansion have already been examined for the Sandkrug junction in Reislingen (e.g. traffic circle or relocation of the road). The result: the junction will be widened. Several options are still conceivable for all other junctions, perhaps including traffic circles.

"Planning is a balancing act"

"With the south-east traffic concept, we are taking a holistic view of all traffic types, but developing an individual solution for each," emphasizes Mayor Dennis Weilmann. "By expanding the junctions, we are creating the necessary capacity so that car traffic can also shift. This will ensure a fast and convenient route into our city center."

"Especially with existing junctions, planning is a balancing act between structural possibilities, traffic impact and the surrounding area. Our aim is to find the most technically and economically viable solution for each junction - adapted to the local conditions and with a view to the future viability of the infrastructure," adds Kai-Uwe Hirschheide, First City Councillor and City Planning Officer.

Relocation of the L 290 is not feasible

With this approach, we are following the recommendation of the state authorities, as the L 290 is a rural road under the jurisdiction of the state of Lower Saxony. Originally, it was planned to relocate the L 290 between the junctions with the K 111 and Marie-Curie-Allee / Dieselstraße as part of the approved south-east traffic concept - also in order to relieve the Sandkrug junction in Reislingen. However, no agreement could be reached with the state of Lower Saxony for this option.

As the state also refused to cover the costs and no suitable funding could be obtained, this option is not financially feasible for the city of Wolfsburg. In addition, the frequency of car traffic here is lower than was assumed at the start of planning based on forecasts.

Construction to start in 2027 at the earliest - political consultation begins

The tender for the planning services is to be issued this year and the planning itself will then be carried out in 2026. Construction is not expected to start until the end of 2027 at the earliest. The planning proposal will now enter the political consultation phase, starting with the planning and building committee on June 5. A decision is to be made by Wolfsburg City Council at its meeting on June 18.