Karl-Marx-Street undergoes overhaul following fifteen years of reconstruction efforts
Berlin's Karl-Marx-Straße has undergone a 15-year transformation, modernising the street's infrastructure and improving traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and the overall urban environment.
The renovation, which began in 2006, aimed to create wider pavements, broader cycle paths, and more traffic light crossings, as well as newly developed pedestrian areas such as Alfred-Scholz-Platz. The reconstruction was carried out in phases from Hermannplatz to Grenzallee, a nearly 3-kilometer stretch from north to south.
During the renovation, Karl-Marx-Straße remained one of the most congested roads in Berlin. Shops and restaurants opened and closed throughout the construction period, adjusting to the ongoing work on the street. The U-Bahn beneath Karl-Marx-Straße also received a makeover during the renovation.
Despite the delays, the renovation was marked by Neukölln district mayor Martin Hikel on Instagram. The reopening of the street is celebrated with a planned street party on September 26, 2025. However, another construction phase will start in 2027 between Weichselstraße and Hermannplatz for U-Bahn tunnel renovation, meaning some further disruptions will occur in the coming years.
The newly renovated Karl-Marx-Straße features more spacious pavements, a cycle lane, and a slight reduction in space for cars, making it more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly. The renovation marks the end of a construction period that spanned over 15 years, during which entire generations have practically grown up with the construction site on Karl-Marx-Straße.
Immigrants who came and went in Berlin during the past 15 years have never experienced a world without construction on Karl-Marx-Straße. Couples who met, got married, and broke up in Berlin during the past 15 years have also never experienced a world without construction on Karl-Marx-Straße.
Interestingly, the renovation of Karl-Marx-Straße took longer than the construction of BER airport, setting a new record in Berlin for its duration. However, the renovation of Karl-Marx-Platz, located nearby, is due to be completed next year, not in another 15.
The renovation of Karl-Marx-Straße has been a significant and long-term project, lasting for 15 years. The completed work will undoubtedly make the street a more pleasant and functional place for residents and visitors alike.
The completed renovation of Karl-Marx-Straße has transformed it into a more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly lifestyle, offering wider pavements and a dedicated cycle lane. In addition, home-and-garden enthusiasts might appreciate the newly developed pedestrian areas such as Alfred-Scholz-Platz.
