U5 extension to Hernals: How to improve public transport access!

U5 extension to Hernals: How to improve public transport access!

The preparations for the expansion of the U5 subway line in Vienna are taking more and more concrete forms. The construction of this important infrastructure project will significantly improve the connection to the 17th district of Hernals and offer the approximately 60,000 residents of Hernals a faster connection to the city center. How wien.orf.at reports, the U5 will in future run from Elterleinplatz to the suburban line in Hernals, with construction work expected to begin at the end of 2026 and completion aimed for between 2032 and 2035.

The plans also stipulate that a replacement bus will be used on a section of tram line 9 during the construction period, which may result in some changes to public transport. It was also suggested that the existing line 42 may be merged with line 37 after the U5 goes into operation, which has not yet been finally decided. This change will provide passengers with a more convenient connection while the Vienna lines emphasize that the tenders are preliminary and the final plans still need to be developed.

Comprehensive improvements in the station environment

A key focus of the project is not only access to the subway, but also creating a welcoming environment around the new stations. The construction plans include greening the area as well as wider sidewalks and new cycle paths. According to current information, the environmentally friendly expansion of transport routes will also save up to 75,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually, which is equivalent to the output of a large area of ​​forest. The project aims to not only relieve public transport, but also to create climate-friendly spaces for pedestrians and cyclists, which should improve the microcima in Hernals.