Hunsrückspange: Will the mega project become infinite history?

Hunsrückspange: Will the mega project become infinite history?

The Hunsrückspang is one of the largest road construction projects in Germany. With an estimated cost of around 60 million euros, it is intended to connect the federal road 41 at Nahe to the Bundesstraße 50 near Hahn Airport. The aim is to relieve the villages and communities in the region from through traffic to increase the quality of life of the residents. Despite the ambitious project, the planning of which has been going on since the 1970s, the current construction progress is on the brink

[SWR] reports that the center section, which includes the bypass of Rhaunen, should not be accessible until 2028. Construction began in 2019, but it is unclear when the entire Hunsrückspange will finally be completed. The implementation of the project is divided into three sections: The middle section has costs of around 25 million euros, the southern section for which a draft has existed since 2012, is estimated at around 24 million euros, while costs of around 10 million euros are planned for the northern section - but there is still no permit here.

political support and economic importance

Prominent supporters of the project like Wolfgang Hey from the SPD and representatives of the IHK emphasize the economic advantages that are associated with improved traffic connections. These could support both regional companies and make commuting. The quality of life in Hunsrück communities, such as Rhaunen and Hottenbach, is to be significantly increased by reduced traffic, less noise and exhaust gases.

However, there is also criticism of the insufficient speed of expansion. Wolfgang Hey, the ex-district administrator and member of the transport initiative, describes the Hunsrückspang as an important structural measure. He is cited in a press release that local actors express their concern about the previous progress and the role of the State Audit Office. Work on the valley bridge near Rhaunen should continue until summer 2025, whereby the fear is expressed from many sides that the project could become an "infinite story".

Current challenges

The complexity of the project can also be seen in the required detailed studies, especially for the southern section of the Hunsrückspange. These delays raise questions whether the ambitious goals can be achieved. According to [Rhein-Zeitung], local economy and politics criticize that without timely implementation, essential opportunities to improve the regional infrastructure are left behind.

The overdue decision on the north section could also be crucial for the progress of the entire project. Without the necessary permits, the entire schedule is in danger.

The entire project remains of great importance. It acts like a key factor for the future development of the region by combining the economic areas upper near and Hunsrück and supporting the mobility of residents as well as economic development.