U5 subway line, Hamburg

Germany’s Largest Subway Project: Hamburg’s first fully automated subway line drives the mobility transition

Hamburg is laying new tracks for the future. The new U5 subway line will connect Bramfeld and Osdorf directly through the center of Hamburg and is expected to be completed by 2040. Spanning 29 kilometers with 24 stations, it is currently Germany's largest subway construction project and the city's first fully automated line.

The first construction phase is already underway on five stops between Bramfeld City Nord stations. Once fully operational, the U5 will transport more than 300,000 passengers daily. At the City Nord stop, automated platform doors will ensure passenger safety even during peak hours. The 250-meter-long station is engineered for 120-meter trains, with the underground structure measuring 21 meters wide at the platform and expanding up to 43 meters in the main concourse areas.

Even now, the U5 is on the right track to a sustainable transit future by relieving urban traffic, reducing the number of kilometers driven every day, and running entirely on green electricity.

Last Stop: Project Success  

Drees & Sommer is providing overall site supervision and specialized construction management for the expansion of the City Nord station and its adjacent tunnel section. To ensure seamless communication among all stakeholders, the project team coordinates schedules, trades, and their respective interfaces. Furthermore, live reporting combined with systematic documentation guarantees transparent collaboration across the board.

In addition, Drees & Sommer is responsible for digital and integrated construction management, as well as specialized supervision for the interior fit-out, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems, and track superstructure. Thanks to tightly synchronized construction processes and multi-shift operations, the client benefits from significantly shorter construction times. The local community also benefits, as highly coordinated processes, paired with environmentally friendly materials reduce the project's overall carbon footprint long-term. 

Added value

• Shorter construction times driven by synchronized workflows and multi-shift operations.
• Reduced carbon footprint achieved through green electricity, optimized construction processes, and eco-friendly materials.
• Reduced traffic congestion in Hamburg by significantly cutting the number of kilometers driven daily.
• Increased transparency established through clearly defined processes and responsibilities. 
  
   

Services

• Integrated and digital construction management
• Interface coordination
• Schedule management using Lean Construction principles
• Overall site supervision
• Construction supervision for interior fit-out, MEP systems, and track superstructure
• Live reporting and systematic documentation 

For more insights, visit LinkedIn or read the press release.