Dortmund's Mobility Transition: Digitalization, Infrastructure, and Accessibility in Transportation Policy

Dortmund's Mobility Strategy in Focus: Digitalization, Infrastructure, and Accessibility

Dortmund is on a decisive path toward a climate-friendly, digitally connected, and accessible transportation policy. In February 2026, the Committee for Mobility, Infrastructure, and Green Spaces (AMIG) set important impulses in several sessions, covering both short-term measures and strategic objectives. The debates reflect the challenges that every modern large city in the Ruhr region currently faces: How can public transport be made more attractive? How can cycling be promoted without displacing private traffic? And how can accessibility in the public space be improved?

MOVE.digital: Connected Mobility for Dortmund

A central project presented at the AMIG meeting on 03.02.2026 is MOVE.digital. This funding project aims to develop and integrate digital mobility solutions in the city. It is not only about the interplay of various modes of transport such as bus, train, carsharing, and cycling, but also about preparing for autonomous driving.

The city sees MOVE.digital as an opportunity to relieve traffic congestion while simultaneously increasing the attractiveness of public transport. Particularly interesting is the discussion on app-integrated H-Bahn tickets, proposed by the CDU parliamentary group. Such solutions could significantly simplify the use of public transport and make it more attractive, especially for younger population groups.

Cycling: Expansion of Veloroutes and the Ruhr Cycle Superhighway

Cycling has become increasingly important in Dortmund in recent years. In February 2026, several projects were presented that aim to further advance the expansion of cycling infrastructure. A focus was placed on Veloroute 1 in Eving, which is being optimized through the establishment of a bicycle street and the installation of diagonal barriers and bicycle parking stands.

In addition, the Ruhr Cycle Superhighway (RS1) in the section of Sonnenstraße was discussed. With an investment of 5.5 million euros and funding from the state budget, the project is part of the city's mobility turnaround strategy. The goal is to increase the share of cycling to 20% by 2030 while simultaneously reducing dependence on motorized individual transport (MIV).

Public Transport Quality: Accessibility and Customer Satisfaction

Public transport in Dortmund was under scrutiny in February 2026. The 2024 Quality Report showed that, despite positive ratings from many passengers (92.9% would continue to use DSW21), there are still significant areas for improvement. Particularly critical evaluations were given to punctuality, accessibility, and stop equipment.

The city now plans concrete measures, including pilot projects for barrier-free stop equipment and better communication in case of timetable changes. For example, the introduction of line 400 was criticized due to insufficient information. In addition, accessibility is being prioritized: all station entrances will be renovated, and wheelchair-accessible entrances and noiseless closing doors will become standard.

IGA 2027: Mobility Concept and Infrastructure Measures

With an eye on IGA 2027, Dortmund has presented a comprehensive mobility concept. It includes, among other things, the installation of 1,300 bicycle parking facilities, the establishment of shuttle buses, and the expansion of bike and pedestrian paths along the Emscher. Particularly important is the creation of barrier-free access to the IGA sites. The city also plans to set up temporary parking lots and a coach terminal to optimize the travel comfort for visitors.

Alongside the IGA, the renovation work on playgrounds, paths, and railway crossings is also in focus. The costs for these measures are expected to run into the millions, with external funding also playing a role.

Conclusion: A Mobility Strategy in Transition

Dortmund's transportation policy in February 2026 shows that the city is consciously aligning itself with a sustainable, digital, and accessible future. The investments in cycling, the digitalization of public transport, and the planning for IGA 2027 are not only expressions of a long-term strategy, but also responses to current challenges such as climate change and demographic change. The debates in the AMIG also show that the balance between different transport modes and interest groups in the city has not yet been fully achieved – but the direction is clear.