Stuttgart: Traffic and Mobility in January 2026 – Expansion, Sustainability, and Climate Protection

Stuttgart mobil: Traffic in January 2026 – Expansion, Sustainability, and Climate Protection

In January 2026, Stuttgart is placing strong emphasis on a modern, environmentally friendly, and efficient transportation policy. The city is using the political momentum to strengthen public transport, expand the cycling infrastructure, and advance noise and climate protection measures. In this month, numerous decisions were made and planning initiatives launched with the aim of redefining traffic in Stuttgart for the future.

Public Transport: Expansion, Digitization, and Accessibility

Public transport in Stuttgart is receiving a further boost in January 2026. The 2025 Public Transport Plan includes the extension of tram lines U13 and U19, as well as the introduction of a new U-Bahn line, U25. The U5 will be extended to "Neuer Markt," and the U6 to the airport. These measures improve the accessibility of the city center and the surrounding districts.

Another milestone is the introduction of SSB Flex, a ride-pooling service that functions as a supplement to regular public transport, particularly during periods of low traffic and in rural areas. The digital traffic control center (IVLZ) is being expanded to provide real-time traffic information and optimize operations.

Accessibility remains a central issue: Overall, 99% of tram stops have been redesigned to be barrier-free, and a complete overhaul of bus stops is planned. The city is also investing in emission-free buses and plans to convert the entire bus fleet to climate-friendly drives by 2027.

Cycling: Infrastructure Expansion and New Projects

Cycling has a firm place in Stuttgart's mobility strategy. In January 2026, planning for new bicycle parking facilities and workshops was initiated, including a project in the district of Möhringen. The main cycle route 3 (Königsträßle) has entered the preliminary planning phase, and the "Grüne Fuge" along the Plieninger Straße is being further developed as a central connection.

In addition, the city is examining whether intersection-free cycle paths, such as bicycle bridges, would be beneficial to reduce traffic and increase cyclist safety. The city is also focusing on wide pedestrian and cycling paths (3.5 m) and significantly improving the cycling connection to the airport and the B27 highway.

Noise Protection and Climate Protection: Challenges and Measures

Traffic noise remains a challenge, particularly along the Plieninger Straße and Kurt-Schumacher-Straße. The noise levels during the day are between 70–75 dB(A) and exceed the evaluation levels at night. In January 2026, concrete measures were discussed, including the installation of sound-insulating windows, noise barriers, and the arrangement of buildings to deflect sound waves.

Climate protection remains a central topic: Stuttgart is investing in green roofs, rainwater management, and photovoltaic surfaces to reduce sealing. The city also plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector by 40% by 2030, primarily through the expansion of public transport and cycling infrastructure.

Future Lines and Infrastructure: Stuttgart 21 and More

The expansion of the main station as part of Stuttgart 21 is in focus in January 2026. The new station "Staatsgalerie" and the tunnel expansion are key projects. In addition, the S-Bahn station "Mitternachtstraße" will open in July 2027, and the main line of the S-Bahn will be extended to the northeast. The digital control and safety technology ETCS is being introduced to increase the safety and efficiency of rail traffic.

Stuttgart has also planned precautionary measures in the vicinity of the airport: buildings over 460 m above sea level must be marked as aviation hazards, and the required safety distance from power and gas lines is being observed.

Conclusion: Mobility in Stuttgart in Transition

January 2026 marks a significant milestone in Stuttgart's transportation policy. The city is investing in a sustainable, efficient, and climate-friendly public transport system, a strong expansion of cycling infrastructure, and comprehensive measures to address noise pollution and climate protection. With the digitization of the traffic control center, the introduction of ride-pooling services, and the expansion of tram lines, Stuttgart has set the course for a modern, future-oriented mobility system.