Bochum – Mobility in Focus: Renovations, Expansion, and New Regulations in Q2 2026

Mobility in Bochum: Renovation Plans, Expansion, and New Regulations in Q2 2026

In the second quarter of 2026, Bochum placed a focus on the further development of its urban mobility structure. Numerous decisions and projects in the areas of traffic, public transport, cycling, and infrastructure were made, encompassing both short-term impacts and long-term planning. The 5th meeting of the Committee for Mobility, Digitalization, and Infrastructure on May 27, 2026, was central to these developments.

Renovation of August-Bebel-Platz: Priority for Pedestrians and Cyclists

The renovation of August-Bebel-Platz was one of the central topics. The decision to proceed with the project was made, although a motion to halt the planning was submitted. The goal of the renovation is to give priority to pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, while excluding through traffic for motorized individual transport (MIK).

The square will be expanded into a mobility and transfer hub, featuring a mobile station and environmental lanes for buses, cyclists, and emergency vehicles. Bus stop areas will be reduced, articulated buses will be deployed, and a two-way cycle path along the Voedestraße is being considered.

The total project costs have risen to around 19.23 million EUR, funded 70% by urban development support and 100% by KRiS funding. Citizen participation was a central aspect, with information events and adjustments made based on feedback.

Veloroute 1 and Cycling Connectivity: Bottlenecks Eliminated

Another important project is the alleviation of the bottleneck at the Grummer Teichen on Veloroute 1. In addition, it was decided to improve cycling connectivity via Darpestraße and Werner Hellweg. The opening of the cycle path on Universitätsstraße for both directions is also being evaluated.

The expansion of charging infrastructure at cycle stations and the discussion on E-bike garages show that Bochum recognizes the need for modern cycling infrastructure and is responding to it. In addition, the visibility of road markings in rainy conditions has been improved, ensuring greater safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

Public Transport: Route Changes and New Stops

Public transport (ÖPNV) was also a focus area. Route 370 changed its route, and on June 14, 2026, BÖGESTRA implemented a regular timetable change, which included improvements for public transport, the Night Express, and better connections to the S-Bahn.

New low-floor bus stops were established on Klüsener Straße, Wibbeltstraße, Alte Markstraße, and Hegelstraße. In addition, the public transport access to the Lohrheidestadion was improved on weekends and event days, ensuring better accessibility for major events.

Infrastructure and Construction Projects: Bridges, Sewers, and Roundabouts

In addition to mobility projects, infrastructure measures were also in focus. Bridge repairs on Universitätsstraße and the construction of the new Universitätsstraße / A448 bridge were presented, along with sewer construction projects on Eppendorfer and Harpener Straße.

Another focus was the establishment of a roundabout at the intersection of Ümminger Straße / Industriestraße / Mansfelder Straße. A proposal from Bochum-Ost was rejected because it was not geometrically feasible. In addition, it was examined whether a permanent traffic light should be installed.

Winter Maintenance and Safety: Priority for Cycle Paths

The optimization of winter maintenance for cycling infrastructure was another important topic. Cycle paths have priority in winter maintenance after public transport, but in the last snow period, they were not adequately cleared, leading to inaccessibility. In addition, two accidents due to icy conditions on cycle paths were recorded, underscoring the need for better clearing.

Discussions took place on whether formic acid should be used and how users could be made more aware of the situation. In addition, measures for the renewal and improvement of the visibility of road markings were presented.

Conclusion: Bochum Invests in Sustainable Mobility

The second quarter of 2026 has shown that Bochum is actively working for a modern, sustainable, and safer mobility structure. Whether it is cycling, public transport, or traffic planning – the city has made numerous decisions that aim at both short-term improvements and long-term planning. Citizen participation and the consideration of feedback play a central role. In the coming months and years, it will be interesting to observe how these projects are implemented and prove effective.