Starting Monday, May 30, Warsaw begins a comprehensive two-month renovation of the tram tracks along Aleje Jerozolimskie, aimed at replacing worn-out rails and repairing the Poniatowski Bridge viaduct infrastructure.
Urgency Behind the Renovations
The tramway infrastructure in Aleje Jerozolimskie has reached a critical state, with rail wear in some sections between 80 and 90 percent. Maintenance crews have intervened nearly 50 times this year alone, as track deterioration has forced speed restrictions down to 10–20 km/h.
While the project was originally intended to coincide with the railway cross-city line modernization, repeated delays by PKP PLK forced the city to act independently. The renovation is now coordinated with the Road Authority’s work on the Poniatowski Bridge viaduct, which requires partial track dismantling.
Scope of Construction and Traffic Impact
The project covers 6 km of single track, including upgrades from Plac Starynkiewicza to Rondo De Gaulle’a and key intersections like Emilii Plater and Marszałkowska. Tram service from Plac Starynkiewicza to Rondo Waszyngtona will be suspended starting May 30.
To mitigate disruptions, the city will introduce a replacement bus line, Z-9, running every two minutes during peak hours. Additional tram lines will be rerouted to maintain service to key areas, and dynamic traffic management will be implemented to prioritize lanes during rush hours.
Projected Outcome and Safety
The renovation is scheduled to conclude in August 2026, aiming to ensure long-term, incident-free operation until the future cross-city rail project begins. The upgrades are expected to improve ride comfort and shave 1–2 minutes off travel times by eliminating existing speed restrictions.
