Rostock in Focus: The Most Important Developments in February 2026

Traffic and Mobility in Focus

What was important this month

• TRAM WEST enters decision phase: After finalizing the preferred variant, the decisive city council decision is scheduled for March 4.
• 30-km/h debate clarified: 30-km/h speed limits will only be allowed as a last resort measure on main traffic streets in the future.
• New tram line to Reutershagen: The line will be constructed starting in 2028 and completed by 2031.
• Anti-rent-gouging tool approved: A new instrument to strengthen tenants' rights has been decided.

TRAM WEST: The Future of Rostock's Tram Network

The biggest traffic development of the month is undoubtedly the TRAM WEST project, which will create a tram line from Zoo to Braesigplatz. With a budget of 100 million EUR and funding from federal, state, and municipal sources, the expansion marks a milestone in Rostock's transport policy.

The preferred variant has been finalized, and now the city is awaiting the city council decision on March 4, 2026. Special attention is given to tree care along the route – for example, the preservation of the maple tree row and the chestnut trees. At the same time, alternatives such as the "East route" are being further examined to ensure the best possible connectivity for all districts.

In addition, the extension to Reutershagen will be constructed in the coming years, with the section to the new cemetery being replaced by buses. This expansion will be completed by 2031 and will improve the connection to the University Medical Center and the Job Center.

Climate Protection and Sustainable Urban Development

The city is increasingly focusing on green infrastructure and climate-friendly construction methods. The Rostock City Cube is being developed as a new center featuring vertical greening, which will not only be an architectural highlight but also a model for sustainable urban development.

Within the climate protection strategy, trees and nature monuments are also being particularly protected. Approximately 99,000 EUR has been allocated for tree protection in Maßmannstraße. Overall, the tree protection ordinance is integrated into several projects to preserve the city's ecological value.

In addition, an anti-rent-gouging tool has been approved to help tenants make rent levels more transparent and strengthen tenants' rights. This is a step toward a more socially responsible housing policy.

Finance and Investments

Important financial decisions were also made in February. Approximately 190,000 EUR is planned for greening elements on Neuer Markt to improve urban climate quality. An additional 80,000 EUR is planned for this pilot phase until 2027.

The local council budgets were also continued: In Schmarl, 3,277 EUR is available for local projects such as children's events, and in Evershagen, 14,600 EUR is still available for 2026. These budgets enable decentralized shaping of the districts and strengthen community spirit locally.

Outlook: Where is it going next?

In March, the city council decision on TRAM WEST is scheduled, which will play a decisive role in Rostock's traffic development. In addition, the greening pilot phase on Neuer Markt will be launched, and trees in Maßmannstraße will continue to be protected. In the coming months, the anti-rent-gouging tool will also be implemented, a project that will be a great relief for many tenants.