Next Stop: The Future
The Regiotram is taking shape
The Regiotram is creating a new mobility option for the Aachen metropolitan region. Following the successful completion of the preliminary feasibility study at the end of 2025, the project is now in the preliminary planning phase. At the same time, potential route extensions are being explored, and the organizational foundations for the next planning steps are being laid. The Regiotram is thus taking shape step by step.
From Concept to Concrete Route
In November 2025, an important milestone was reached: The preliminary feasibility study for the main line between Aachen and Baesweiler, as well as the branch line to Würselen-Merzbrück, was completed. Among other things, the results of the feasibility study were reviewed, existing infrastructure was surveyed, and technical framework conditions for further planning were defined.
Since then, the contracted engineering firms have been working on the preliminary planning. The focus is currently on developing and evaluating various route alternatives. The goal is to identify the best solution for each individual route section and to determine a preferred alternative. Surveys, traffic counts, analyses of alternative routes, and coordination with the participating municipalities form the basis for this process.
Planning Together for the Region
The Regiotram is one of the region’s largest infrastructure projects and requires close collaboration among numerous partners. In addition to the municipalities of Aachen, Alsdorf, Baesweiler, and Würselen, as well as the Aachen Urban Region, the planning process also involves infrastructure operators, permitting authorities, funding agencies, and stakeholder groups, among others.
In parallel with the technical planning, dialogue with the public and stakeholders is also continuing. Information events, participatory formats, and digital resources such as the Project Atlas enable citizens to stay informed about the current status of planning at an early stage and to share their perspectives. For example, an information fair held on December 2, 2025, at the Depot in Aachen provided an opportunity to gain insights into the project’s current status and to engage with experts and project leaders.
Potential for Additional Routes
Plans are already being made for the future, even beyond the routes planned so far. A feasibility study on the northern extension from Baesweiler to the Übach-Palenberg station has yielded positive results. In addition, an investigation is currently underway to determine whether the branch line to Würselen-Merzbrück could eventually be extended to the Eschweiler Talbahnhof station.
These studies demonstrate the development potential the Regiotram holds for the entire region and how it can better connect existing transportation options in the future.
New Structures for the Next Steps
As planning progresses, the organizational structures are also being further developed. The Regiotram Aachen Planning and Infrastructure Company was founded at the end of 2025. In the future, it will assume responsibility for the continued implementation of the project and lay the groundwork for the subsequent planning and construction phases.
Looking Ahead
Preliminary planning is scheduled to be completed by mid-2027. Until then, the agenda includes selecting a preferred option, conducting in-depth planning, and further coordination with policymakers, relevant authorities, and the public. With each planning step, the Regiotram continues to take shape—as the new backbone of sustainable mobility in the Aachen metropolitan region.