Am Knorren level crossing: 12 weeks full closure from August 18th!
From August 18, 2025, the Am Knorren level crossing in Osterholz will be closed for twelve weeks. The reason is the connection to a new electronic signal box to improve train traffic.

Am Knorren level crossing: 12 weeks full closure from August 18th!
From Monday, August 18th, the Am Knorren level crossing in Osterholz will be completely closed for an expected twelve weeks. The full closure will last until November 6, 2025 and will affect not only traffic, but also residents, who will have to prepare for diversions via the B74 or Osterholzer Straße. The project, which is related to the connection of the crossing to the new Bremen-Burg electronic signal box, aims to improve the reliability and stability of train traffic between Bremen and Bremerhaven. The Weser courier reports that the bypass is 2.4 to 3.4 kilometers depending on the route.
The detour via the northern variant takes road users via the federal highway, while the southern bypass through Osterholz may take more time. DB Infra-Go AG plans to use modern technologies to minimize the impact of the construction work on local residents. Particularly noisy work is planned for weekdays, which should be made clear to those affected in advance. Questions or comments can be directed to Deutsche Bahn at the e-mail address ESTW-Bremen@deutschebahn.com or by telephone at 0511/286 31 13, Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Technological innovations in rail transport
The reason behind the closure of the crossing is the commissioning of the electronic interlocking (ESTW) in Bremen, which will take place in October 2025. This modernization is part of a larger plan for the general renovation of the line from Bremen to Bremerhaven, which is planned for 2027. Loud DB Infra-Go AG The changeover requires numerous closure states, which will also result in total closures for several routes and tracks. This could result in far-reaching changes to all passenger and freight transport.
A modern electronic signal box uses computer-aided systems to control trains and avoid collisions. Such systems not only improve safety but also reduce maintenance requirements. Loud Dadao Energy Signal failures are reduced by 20 to 30% with the switch to digital solutions, which represents a significant improvement for train operations.
Comprehensive modernization plans
In addition to the Am Knorren crossing, a total of 17 other level crossings between Bremen-Burg and Osterholz-Scharmbeck are affected by this technology, which is being implemented gradually. However, a planned crossing on Fergersbergstrasse in Ritterhude will only be worked on after the new castle bridge is completed in about a year. Such measures are crucial to sustainably improve the capacity and efficiency of rail transport and raise it to modern standards.
Residents are asked to understand possible noise disturbances and restrictions during construction work. What is certain is that the coming months will mean a change for many commuters and pedestrians in the region, and it will be exciting to see how quickly the advantages of the new technologies in rail transport become noticeable.