A49 Motorway Fully Opens After Years of Controversy and Construction

The new 30-kilometer stretch between Schwalmstadt and Ohmtal-Dreieck is operational, promising regional benefits but facing ongoing criticism over environmental impacts.

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.