The 719-meter-long Cornberg Tunnel between Bebra and Sontra has almost reached the end of its technical service life. It is therefore being replaced by a new tunnel.
The Cornberg Tunnel is located on the Frankfurt (Main) – Göttingen line in a double-track, electrified section between Bebra and Sontra. It was opened in 1875 and, after 145 years of train service, has suffered extensive damage. Due to the damage, the tunnel can no longer be economically renovated and must therefore be replaced by a new tunnel running parallel to the existing tunnel. This will maintain the line's performance in the long term and also increase travel comfort.
The new double-track tunnel will be built parallel to the existing tunnel south of the existing tunnel. This will also shift the tracks in the tunnel area and at Cornberg station slightly to the south. The new track layout will also require the forest road to be shifted laterally for approximately 60 meters.