Citizens were involved in the planning. The 2024 mobility survey shows that the people of Stuttgart are very satisfied with the local public transport services provided by Stuttgarter Straßenbahnen (SSB). The city and SSB want to maintain their close cooperation and continue it in view of the difficult budget situation. The basis for this is the continuation of the local transport plan. It is the most important planning instrument for shaping the city's own public transport system and regulates developments over the next five years.
Savings relate to new projects
In view of the tight budget situation, the city is facing the challenge of making financial cuts in local public transport. Savings of around 25 million euros per year are planned, which will only affect new projects.
Important points from the third update of the local transport plan have already been implemented or are in the process of being implemented. These include the extension of the U1 light rail line to 80-metre-long trains in double traction, which are scheduled to run for the first time in 2026.
The extension of the U19 to the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the new U25 line connecting Plieningen and the University of Hohenheim with the city center are to be maintained. These projects are to be implemented gradually and with a view to the financial circumstances.
New light rail depot in Weilimdorf
The construction of a new light rail depot in the Weilimdorf district, which is being funded by a municipal grant, remains a key project. The depot is crucial for accommodating the light rail vehicles required for the expansion of local transportation. In combination with the extension of the U13 line to Hausen, this project is being driven forward rapidly.
Improvements have already been made to bus services, such as the introduction of the new line 47 between the east of Stuttgart and the city center as well as increased frequency on line 42. In future, a five-minute interval will be introduced during rush hour in order to meet passenger demand even with fewer high-capacity buses.
Investing in the quality of rail infrastructure
In addition, several construction measures are planned in the coming years to maintain the quality of the rail infrastructure. These measures are necessary to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of Stuttgart's light rail system.
Citizens were actively involved in the planning process. As early as 2024, there was public participation in the form of an online survey, four on-site events and a meeting of the local youth council on the topic. Many of the suggestions from the participation will already be implemented for the upcoming timetable change, in particular improvements to the transfer options between light rail and bus services.
In the coming weeks, the district councils will discuss and submit their opinions on the new local transport plan, mostly in joint meetings. The decision by the municipal council is planned for December 18.
About the local transport plan
The local transport plan of the state capital of Stuttgart sets out the principles for the expansion and further development of local public transport. It regulates both the scope and quality of transport services as well as the integration of the various means of transport and is a central planning instrument for the design of Stuttgart's public transport system.
