Overview

• The A49 motorway in central Hesse is now fully operational, completing a 30-kilometer connection between Schwalmstadt and the Ohmtal-Dreieck.
• The project faced significant environmental protests, particularly over deforestation in the Dannenröder Forest, and required extensive police operations to clear activist barricades and treehouses.
• Local authorities anticipate reduced traffic noise, relief for secondary road networks, and economic growth from improved regional connectivity.
• The motorway's opening was monitored by police, with some protests planned during an official ceremony in Stadtallendorf to mark the occasion.
• The €1.45 billion project, executed under a public-private partnership, was completed in stages, with traffic now flowing smoothly in both directions.