Road closures and construction work are set to impact traffic in the Dortmund-Unna area over the weekend as attendees are expected to flood the region for several major events, including a highly anticipated international football match.
From 9:00 PM on Friday, March 21, 2025, until 12:00 PM on Sunday, March 23, the A44 highway will be fully closed in the direction of Dortmund between the Unna-Ost exit and the Kreuz Dortmund-Unna junction. The reason for this closure is road rehabilitation work, according to Autobahn GmbH, which manages the construction and maintenance of the highway.
Additionally, repair work will be carried out on the road surface of this section to ensure that it meets safety standards and can handle the heavy traffic expected due to the events occurring over the weekend.
As the A44 closure coincides with busy times in Dortmund, particularly on Sunday evening when Germany takes on Italy in a football match at 8:45 PM, the construction will likely exacerbate traffic issues. There are also several trade fairs, such as Creativa, Cake & Bake, and a Jobmesse underway, alongside performances of “Disney On Ice” and the musical “Elvis” at the Westfalenhallen, consequently attracting thousands of visitors and participants to the area.
The dual closures of the A44, which also includes an earlier closure between Kreuz Wünnenberg-Haaren and Geseke starting at 8:00 PM on March 21 for additional rehabilitation work, may significantly extend driving times. Those planning routes should expect detours leading via the A33 and B1, which will add approximately 15 kilometers to their trips.
Travelers should be aware that there might be congestion on alternate roads due to the high volume of vehicles diverting from the A44. The construction is part of a broader expansion strategy for connecting the B1 to the A40, facilitating better traffic flow in the longer term.
In light of these disruptions, travelers are strongly advised to plan ahead. "Es ist wichtig, während dieser Bauarbeiten Geduld zu haben," stated a representative from Autobahn GmbH, underscoring the potential for delays. Setting off earlier or considering public transport options could save time and reduce frustration.
The good news for commuters is that the closure of the Unna-Soest railway line will conclude on the evening of March 21, allowing train services to resume at half-hour intervals operated by Eurobahn. This service connects travelers from Soest and Unna to Dortmund, providing an alternative to driving during this busy period.
As the clock ticks down to match time, many locals and visitors alike are bracing for what may be one of the busiest weekends in Dortmund for quite some time. The A44 closure is scheduled to be lifted promptly at noon on March 23, meaning drivers can anticipate returning to normal traffic conditions in time for the post-match crowd.
In conclusion, while construction activities and the international match will strain the Dortmund area’s traffic resources, with strategic planning and by using alternative transportation options, travelers can navigate the disruptions effectively.
