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New signal box in Bremen-Burg: massive closures for modernization!
On October 2, 2025, Deutsche Bahn's new Bremen-Burg electronic signal box will go into operation, resulting in significant route closures and replacement services for affected trains.
New signal box in Bremen-Burg: massive closures for modernization!
Today, October 2, 2025, a new chapter in northern Germany's rail traffic opens: DB InfraGO puts the modern electronic interlocking (ESTW) Bremen-Burg into operation. This move is more than just a technological shift; it is part of a comprehensive renovation program by Deutsche Bahn that aims to modernize the infrastructure and optimize rail operations. As Zughalt.de reports, extensive closure breaks are necessary during the introduction in order to install the new systems and ensure the usual processes.
In the coming days, sections of the following routes will be closed:
- Bremen-Burg bis Bremen-Vegesack
- Bremen-Burg bis Osterholz-Scharmbeck
To facilitate implementation, the section from Bremen to Oldenbüttel will be closed between October 2nd and 6th. In addition, the night of October 5th to 6th will have a very special significance, as Bremen Central Station will be closed that evening. During this time, replacement bus services will be set up for the RE 8 (Hannover - Bremen - Bremerhaven-Lehe), RE 9 (Osnabrück - Bremen - Bremerhaven-Lehe) and the NordWestBahn (RS1 and RS2) trains. Short-term adjustments to other connections cannot be ruled out.
Progress through digitalization
But what is actually behind this development? The new technology of the electronic interlocking (ESTW) will be supplemented in the next phase by a digital interlocking (DSTW). This uses a modern operating system that transmits control commands to switches and signals via fiber optic cable. This not only ensures greater efficiency, but also enables the separation of energy and data, significantly improving maintenance and diagnostic capability. According to Digitale Schiene Deutschland, the use of IPS-based interfaces enables the integration of different components from different manufacturers and thereby promotes competition and quality in railway technology.
The digitalization of the German rail network is not just a buzzword, but an indispensable measure to meet the ever-increasing demands of passenger and freight transport. Over 180 years of tradition mean that many systems are outdated and incompatible, leading to bottlenecks and delays. With the aim of stabilizing rail operations, overcoming these bottlenecks and optimally coordinating trains with one another, Deutsche Bahn is increasingly relying on automation and digital solutions, as DB InfraGO explains.
A look into the future
In the future, trains will no longer just be controlled manually, but will be driven automatically, starting and braking independently, with the train drivers taking over the monitoring. An intelligent system will ensure that trains run at flexible intervals, which will significantly contribute to optimizing traffic flow. In order to achieve this, investments in the technical basis and the networking of the rail network are essential.
The upcoming changes in Bremen are therefore not just a step into the future of regional rail transport, but also demonstrative proof of Deutsche Bahn's ambitions to advance modernization and digitalization in the rail sector. Therefore, travelers in northern Germany can look forward to more efficient and reliable rail transport.