Deutsche Bahn has awarded the Tunnel Ostbahnhof contract to a joint venture between Implenia and HOCHTIEF. Each company holds a 50% share in the venture. This contract is part of the major Second Core S-Bahn Route project in Munich. It includes structural work at the Ostbahnhof stop and tunnel sections between Marienhof and Ostbahnhof. Construction will begin in June 2025 and is expected to finish by May 2033.
Tunnel Ostbahnhof project factsheet
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Project name: Tunnel Ostbahnhof
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Main clients: Implenia and HOCHTIEF
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Project owner: Deutsche Bahn
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Start date: June 2025
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End date: May 2033
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Tunnel length: Around three kilometres
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Station built: München-Ost
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Construction type: Tunnels, galleries, shafts
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Technology used: BIM and Lean methods
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Location: Munich
The work will take place over a three-kilometre stretch. The joint venture will build two traffic tunnels, a rescue gallery, the new underground München-Ost station, and eight connecting structures. The project also includes a junction structure, several shafts and galleries, and a new underpass at Ostbahnhof station. This large-scale project will involve various skills, including tunnel construction, civil engineering, and special foundations.
One major challenge is that trains will keep running throughout the construction period. This requires careful planning and coordination. To manage the complex tasks, the team will use Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Lean construction methods to ensure the project stays on track.
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Project roles reversed from earlier Marienhof station project
Implenia and HOCHTIEF have worked together on the Second Core Route since 2018. They are currently building the central Marienhof station. For that project, Implenia leads the technical work, while HOCHTIEF handles the commercial side. For Tunnel Ostbahnhof, these roles are reversed.
Implenia CEO Jens Vollmar welcomed the new contract, saying that maintaining transport infrastructure is key to city life. He added that Implenia is proud to support public transport in Munich through its experience and expertise.
The current S-Bahn tunnel through Munich, opened in 1972, is used by all trains and has reached its limit. With 840,000 daily passengers, the Second Core Route will ease congestion, provide a backup route, and shorten travel times across the city. The Tunnel Ostbahnhof contract is a vital step in improving this busy network.
