Imagining the Station of Tomorrow: Railway's Future Blueprint
In a bid to enhance the passenger experience and promote sustainability, Deutsche Bahn (DB) has launched its Zukunftsbahnhöfe (Future Train Stations) program. This initiative, aimed at modernizing train stations across Germany, is making significant strides in the region of Baden-Württemberg, with Leutkirch being one of the cities undergoing transformation.
Approximately 250,000 euros is being spent on upgrades in Leutkirch, according to DB. The city council has also contributed 220,000 euros from the municipal budget for the expansion of the bicycle garage. These investments are part of DB InfraGo's broader efforts to improve infrastructure, accessibility, and digitalization at stations across the country.
The upgrade in Leutkirch focuses on various aspects, including architectural design, equipment, capacity, barrier-free access, passenger information and guidance, accessibility, facility standards, travel services, station surroundings, consumption offer, cleanliness, and safety. Improvements for accessibility include the installation of tactile signs for visually impaired passengers, guide strips on the floor, and accessible elevators.
To enhance the station's appearance, early bloomers are being planted at the platforms. More LED lights are providing increased brightness at the platform, and monitors at the edge of the platforms display current travel information and can read it out on request. Single-line digital displays are being replaced by three-line ones for better visibility.
The historic station building in Leutkirch has been developed into a cultural station with catering, reflecting DB's commitment to integrating local culture into its modernization efforts. Deutsche Bahn plans to upgrade around 100 stations nationwide each year, with 113 stations already developed into Zukunftsbahnhoefe, and a further 100 to follow each year until 2027.
Marco Betsch, who heads the Zukunftsbahnhoefe program at DB InfraGo AG in Baden-Württemberg, oversees these upgrades. In addition, DB has established the Competence Center Station Forecourt to advise cities and municipalities on improving station districts.
These modernization efforts have resulted in a clear increase in customer satisfaction at these stations, according to DB. The comprehensive development of stations, including transport hubs, reception buildings, and station surroundings, is a testament to DB's commitment to creating a more comfortable, accessible, and sustainable travel experience for passengers in Baden-Württemberg.
- In alignment with DB'sZukunftsbahnhöfe program, the city council of Leutkirch is collaborating with DB InfraGo, investing in the expansion of the bicycle garage and other station improvements, signifying a joint effort between municipalities and the industry in promoting sustainability and enhancing finance for transportation technology.
- As part of DB's broader efforts to modernize stations across the country, the Competence Center Station Forecourt has been established to advise cities and municipalities on improving station districts, fostering industry-municipality cooperation and supporting technological advancements in transportation and station infrastructurefinance.
