Krakow’s Mistrzejowice Tram Tunnel: Impressive Progress Brings Us Closer To The Finish Line!
The tunnel in the central section of the tram line to Mistrzejowice is the most labour-intensive part of the construction. It will be a key part of the city’s new tram infrastructure, starting from the Chałupnika Street and passing through Młyńskie Roundabout in a semi-cutting, and finally entering a fully enclosed tunnel just before Polsad Roundabout. It will allow the tram to safely pass beneath the city, while minimizing disruption on the surface.
After months of intensive work, we’ve successfully broken through the southern section of the tunnel. With the continuous operation of three Long Arm excavators, our team achieved a daily excavation output of 600 m³, working six days a week, from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM – a testament to dedication and teamwork.
Thanks to early groundwater management, work proceeded smoothly, and the tunnel has already reached a depth of 14 meters at Młyńska Boczna Street. Simultaneously, temporary bracing of diaphragm walls is underway to prepare the site for a stormwater pumping station four meters below the future track level.
A Major Achievement!
We now have over one kilometer of continuous tunnel, with only a single remaining section left to excavate, on Pilotów Street, near the music school. Excavation on this section is planned to be completed in just two weeks, by December 3, 2025.
The breakthrough was summarized by the construction manager, Wojciech Janosz: “This is a major milestone for the project. Completing this section of the tunnel is the result of harmonious teamwork among many specialists and represents an impressive technological achievement.”
As we approach the completion date, we will see more and more visible progress. This is especially impressive given the complexity of building in the heart of the city. With each passing day, we get closer to the finish line, and soon the results of this enormous effort will become fully visible.
We would like to inform you that tonight, October 27, 2025 (from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.), work will be carried out on John Paul II Avenue involving the dismantling of the old heating network. Bus traffic will be maintained.
We would like to inform you that starting next Monday, November 3, 2025, a change in traffic organization will be introduced on Bohomolca Street. Due to construction work related to the creation of a right-turn lane into the Oświecenia Estate, the right traffic lane will be closed.
Turning right will still be possible from the left lane.
Attention! Traffic disruption from the 24th to the 26th of October.
Dear residents,
Due to the construction of a district heating network carried out by MPEC Kraków for the NOHO development, we inform that from October 24 to 26, temporary traffic disruptions may occur in the area of the entrance from Mogilska Street to Czyżyńska Street.
We kindly ask all drivers and pedestrians to exercise extra caution and follow the temporary traffic arrangements in place during the works.
At the same time, we inform that no interruptions in hot water supply are expected in connection with these works.
We have already laid 6,000 square meters of sedum mats out of the planned 15,000. This is an important milestone for our project – the solution will bring many benefits both for the natural environment and for residents. Thanks to the sedum, it will be quieter, more aesthetically pleasing, and more ecological!
The aesthetic value of green tram tracks is undeniable – as a natural element of urban space, they look far more attractive than concrete surfaces. Sedums, plants of the genus Sedum, are particularly pleasing to the eye. The effect is visible immediately, as the mats are unrolled like a green carpet – without the need for planting. In addition, they shimmer with many colours thanks to the flowering leaves – from green, through golden, to red and orange in the autumn. The colour palette of a sedum-covered track thus changes with every season.
Aesthetics aren’t everything. A tram track covered with sedum also has numerous ecological and social benefits. Instead of a loud, dusty track made of concrete or gravel, sedum reduces noise, dust, and vibrations caused by passing trams. It acts as a natural sound absorber – studies show it can reduce tram noise by 2–4 dB*.
Sedum mats also absorb rainwater – they can retain up to 50% of precipitation**. This relieves the city’s drainage system (extending its lifespan and lowering maintenance costs) and minimizes the effects of heavy rainfall. The retained water is then released gradually, reducing the risk of flooding urban infrastructure. Additionally, the mats capture some pollutants, dust, and heavy metals, improving air quality for residents living near the tracks.
Unlike concrete tracks, sedum does not heat up to such high temperatures. This helps lower the temperature around the tracks, which is especially important in dense urban areas during summer. In turn, this helps reduce the so-called urban heat island effect, where built-up areas heat up significantly more than surrounding regions.
In Kraków, green tram tracks can already be seen on many sections, for example between Rondo Grzegórzeckie and Mały Płaszów, or between Grota-Roweckiego and the Czerwone Maki depot. Compared to the grass used in those areas, sedum offers additional benefits. It is much easier to maintain – it doesn’t require mowing or watering. Only occasional cleaning and fertilizing are needed. This solution therefore helps the city save both on maintenance costs and on the natural resources needed to care for greenery.
The tram to Mistrzejowice is an investment designed with the environment in mind – it aims not only to provide faster access to the city center, but also to bring more greenery into urban space. This project improves public transport while contributing to Kraków’s sustainable development. Together, we are creating a city where public transport goes hand in hand with care for the landscape and nature.
We would like to inform you that, due to pedestrian safety concerns during ongoing construction work, we have been forced to close sidewalks along certain sections. Below is a list of changes introduced to pedestrian traffic.
Pedestrian Route from Barei Roundabout to Polsad Roundabout
The pedestrian route from Barei Roundabout towards Polsad Roundabout, along the tunnel on Lublańska Street, has been closed. The work will last for two days, until tomorrow (Friday, September 19th) in the afternoon.
Meissnera Street – Section from Pszona Street to Młyńskie Roundabout
The sidewalk along the eastern side of Meissnera Street (from Pszona Street to Młyńskie Roundabout) will be closed. Pedestrians will be redirected to the sidewalk on the western side, running from Chałupnika Street to Młyńskie Roundabout.
This closure will remain in place for one month.
Meissnera Street – Northern Side
From September 17, 2025, until the first week of October, the sidewalk on the northern side of Mogilska Street leading to Meissnera Street will be closed. The southern side of the crossing will remain open.
In recent weeks, we have been engaged in productive collaboration with local councilors and residents. We are continuously working to ensure that the construction site causes as little disruption as possible to the local community. Below, we present the solutions that have been implemented over the past few weeks.
Młyńskie Roundabout
The Młyńskie Roundabout area has changed significantly over the past few weeks. We are carrying out intensive work in this area, which has involved changes in traffic organisation. Nevertheless, we are consistently marking pedestrian routes and directions to crossings and bus stops to make it easier to navigate the area. Currently, there are 30 signs in place in this area, indicating pedestrian routes and directions to crossings and bus stops.
Improvement of Pedestrian Routes
This week, we will open a 500-meter section of sidewalk on the eastern side of Meissnera Street, between Janickiego and Ugorek Streets, which will further improve walkability in the area. We have also addressed several pedestrian crossings — including the one on Meissnera Street near Śliczna Street and another at Miechowity Street — where we leveled the surface and filled in uneven areas to make them more accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Additionally, we have completed sidewalk sections near Bohomolca Street (approx. 150 meters) and on the western side of Lublańska Street (approx. 250 meters).
Please note that the sidewalk along the eastern side of Meissnera Street (from Pszona Street to Młyńskie Roundabout) will be closed. Pedestrians will be redirected to the sidewalk on the western side, which runs from Chałupnika Street to Młyńskie Roundabout.
Barei Roundabout
Along the pedestrian route near Barei Roundabout, we have clearly marked directions to nearby bus stops and workplaces. Between Barei Roundabout and Polsad Roundabout, we have installed 22 signs to guide pedestrians to crossings and key destinations.
We carry out weekly inspections of signage across the construction area to ensure everything remains up to date and continues to support safe, efficient movement through the area.
We have also made commuting easier for public transport users by removing a temporary fence near the bus stop at Barei Roundabout. This will make transfers between multiple bus lines running through this area much more convenient.
Traffic Signage
Traffic changes related to construction needs can be confusing, especially for those familiar with driving in the area. In addition to standard road signs planned during the design phase, we are also making sure that road markings are clear and help guide drivers in a simple, intuitive way.
On John Paul II Avenue, in the turn lane towards Lema Street, we have already repainted the yellow lane markings to improve their visibility for drivers. In the coming days, we will update road markings in other areas as well — for example, at the turn from Franciszka Kniaźnina Street into Bohomolca Street, where the old markings will be painted over, leaving only the temporary ones, making it easier for drivers to navigate the intersection. Such works are carried out in favorable weather conditions — specifically, in the absence of rain. At the entrance to Łąkowa Street from Śliczna Street, we have installed directional arrows (C9 signs) on posts separating the traffic lanes, so drivers can clearly see where to go.
Across the construction site, we are constantly improving signage and pedestrian routes to make moving through the area as safe and clear as possible. However, please remember that this is still an active construction zone. Conditions may change quickly, and relying on “muscle memory” or past habits can be misleading and dangerous. We strongly urge everyone to avoid entering active work zones. It is extremely hazardous, and saving a couple of minutes is not worth risking your safety.We also ask for responsible communication around the project — constructive feedback is always appreciated, but unclear or overly emotional comments do not help residents or the progress of the work.
Thank you for your patience and your involvement in the local community. We are actively listening to your feedback and doing our best to ensure the construction site remains safe for those living nearby. You can always reach us with your questions or suggestions at info@tramwajdomistrzejowic.pl
August on the Construction Site of the Tram to Mistrzejowice
The summer holidays were filled with intensive work, and August brought further changes visible to residents. The most important development was the restoration of tram traffic along Mogilska Street and al. Jana Pawła II. Thanks to this, tram service along this route resumed at the beginning of the school year, making it easier for passengers to reach schools and workplaces.
Roadworks Department
The roadworks team focused on constructing tracks and roadways at several locations simultaneously. Track construction was carried out at the intersections of Bohomolca, Marchołta, Kurzei, and Załuskich Streets, allowing for the continuation of additional segments of the new route. On Jancarza and Bohomolca Streets, paving works, sidewalk and bike path installation, and platform construction were continued.
On Meissnera, Pilotów, Młyńska, Dobrego Pasterza Streets, and near the Mistrzejowice terminal, work began on new bus platforms. These are essential elements to ensure comfortable transfers and accessibility for passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists in the future.
On Meissnera, Pilotów, Lubańska, Bohomolca, and Jancarza Streets, earthworks continued, and foundation layers for the new road and track structures were being laid. Bituminous layers were paved in sections along the above-mentioned streets and on parts of the Barei Roundabout carriageway.
Electrical Department
August was a very busy month for the electrical department. In addition to installing and equipping traction poles along the entire route, they carried out the construction of power supply cables and the reconstruction of the existing traction network in the area of al. Jana Pawła II and Mogilska. This prepares the infrastructure for the eventual installation of overhead contact wires and the final tram power supply.
At the same time, cable ducting for telecommunications operators and traffic signal systems was being built – this will ensure the proper operation of traffic management systems in the future. In many areas – including Meissnera, Pilotów, and Dobrego Pasterza Streets – conduits under roads and tracks, as well as protective cable pipes, were installed, securing the infrastructure for years to come.
Installation of new street lighting was also underway, with lamp fixtures appearing on Meissnera, Jancarza Streets and near the Mistrzejowice terminal.
Sanitary Department
The sanitary team was mainly responsible for relocating conflicting underground installations. On Meissnera Street, the gas pipeline, water supply, and sewer system were relocated at the intersection with Chałupnika Street – enabling continued paving and track works on this section.
Simultaneously, manhole adjustments were carried out across the construction site – these small details are essential to ensure the durability and safety of the final sidewalks and roadways.
Inside the tunnel, internal installation works were being carried out.
Bridge and Tunnel Department
This department continued reinforced concrete works on the tunnel structure – including under-slab excavation, wall and slab concreting, and insulation works. The fastest progress was made in sections where under-slab excavation enabled work to start on new construction fronts. Walls and corridors are now visible below the surface.
At Polsad Station, general construction and installation works were carried out on both levels, while at the Barei Roundabout and on Meissnera Street, the construction of entry ramp walls progressed.
Structural Department
The structural team worked on retaining walls and noise barriers. Reinforcement, concreting, and insulation allowed for the completion of several sections and the beginning of new ones. At the same time, excavations and piling were carried out for future barriers – although not as visually striking as the tracks, these elements are crucial in protecting residents from noise.
In some locations, noise barrier posts have already been installed, offering a glimpse of the route’s final appearance.
What’s Ahead in September?
In September, work will focus on the continued installation of sanitary and electrical infrastructure, as well as ongoing tunnel works. New street lighting will be switched on in sections already completed.
In the areas of Rondo Młyńskie and Rondo Barei, new traffic arrangements will be introduced to open up completed road sections. Intensive work will continue on sidewalks, bicycle paths, and platform construction. Asphalt paving will take place throughout the month.
Installation work in the tunnel will also continue – including water, sewage, and ventilation systems – which are necessary to begin finishing the station and equipping it with safety systems in the coming months.
Attention! Update on changes to tram traffic on Mogilska Street
Dear Residents, Starting from September 1st, tram service will resume on Mogilska Street.
The tram stop Tauron Arena Kraków Wieczysta (01, 02) will remain out of service, and the area around the stop will stay closed to vehicular traffic. Pedestrian routes in this area remain unchanged.
Trams will also stop at the Białucha and Polish Aviation Museum stops.
Tram line number 5 will stop at the tram terminal Tauron Arena Kraków Wieczysta (03).
A map showing the route is provided below.
Please remember that this is still an active construction site, so we kindly ask you to exercise appropriate caution.
July’s Pace Doesn’t Slow Down. Excavations, backfilling, base slabs, and new track sections – nearly every area of the investment shows clear progress. Despite surprises – from difficult soil conditions to newly discovered underground conflicts – work is proceeding as scheduled.
Starting Section
In the area of al. Jana Pawła II and Mogilska Street, intensive works are ongoing. After the district heating network was switched over on the 31st of July and track-road conflicts were resolved, ground replacement began for the future tram tracks. Tram tracks installation will begin in the coming weeks. Some of the traction pole foundations are already in place. The plan is to shift traffic on October 1st and complete all work in this area before Christmas.
Meissnera Street – Dynamic Changes
At the Śliczna–Łąkowa intersection, a storm water chamber is under construction, and an asphalt layer is planned by the end of the summer holidays. On the eastern side of Meissnera, asphalt has already been laid – paving works and preparations for a green track bed are underway. On Chałupnika Street, the sanitary sewer has been rerouted, and road base layers are being prepared. Track installation is ongoing up to the tunnel section.
Tunnel – Full Mobilisation
Intensive work continues along the entire 1.2-kilometre tunnel section. Additional base and top slabs have been completed, including near the Młyńskie Roundabout, where a bypass was also created. Sub-slab excavation continues between Młyńska Street and Polsad Station. At the station itself, masonry and installation works are underway on both levels. Along Lublańska Street, the final base slabs are being installed, and the exit section is being finished.
Roadworks Along The Route
At Barei Roundabout (Rondo Barei), the outline of the future roadway is already visible – the southern side, enclosed with curbs, is just waiting for the asphalt layer, which is due any moment. On the western side, work on the sidewalk is progressing intensively. On Dobrego Pasterza Street, preparations for the new route are underway – remnants of the old surface have been removed, and teams are laying tracks and paving stones. Meanwhile, on Jancarza Street, the road is being widened, and two new access roads to nearby estates are under construction and expected to open by the end of the month. There’s also a lot happening near the tram terminus – paving works have finished near the church, and the area is being cleaned and prepared for greening with sedum mats.
Sector Updates
Electrical Sector
In July, old traction poles were removed at the intersection of al. Jana Pawła II and Mogilska, Meissnera Streets, and installation of 22 new ones began. New sections of traction cables and protective lighting conduits are being built, and power and telecom conflicts are being resolved. Teletechnical ducts and service channels are also under construction.
Sanitary Sector
Most work was focused around the intersection of al. Jana Pawła II and Mogilska, where under-track crossings, storm water drainage, and gas line reconstructions were completed. A storm water chamber is under construction on Śliczna Street. On Chałupnika Street, sewer redirection work was completed. Storm water drainage is now being built on Bohomolca Street, and manhole and inlet adjustments are ongoing along the entire investment route.
Bridge and Tunnel Sector
Tunnel work was intense throughout the entire 1.2 km section in July. At Barei Roundabout, new foundation slabs were laid, and reinforcement for retaining walls began. Alongside the Tertium Business Park, excavation was done for the last missing tunnel segment on this stretch, at the former Lublańska Street exit. Under the northern chamber roof, a foundation slab with 600 m³ of concrete was poured; above it, tunnel backfilling is ongoing to prepare for road layers. At Polsad Station, sub-slab excavation resumed toward the south on level -2. Masonry work on level -1 is complete, with plastering and installation work planned for August on both levels. Along Młyńska Street, more concrete struts, top slabs, and capping beams were installed. At Młyńska Boczna, after closing traffic, reinforced concrete work began to connect tunnel sections. Concrete work also began on the south exit ramp at Młyńskie Roundabout and along Meissnera Street.
Structural Sector
In July, the structural team focused on retaining wall works from Lublańska to Dobrego Pasterza. Excavation, pile head trimming, form work, reinforcement, and slope shaping were performed. Pile installation for acoustic barriers began. On Bohomolca Street, roof insulation and external door installation at the future transformer station were completed.
What’s coming in August?
In August, two major traffic changes will be introduced. On Dobrego Pasterza Street (near Biedronka), the roadway layout will change on August 4th – with a right-turn ban from Barei Roundabout and a new pedestrian crossing. The next day, at Młyńskie Roundabout, the entire roadway and sidewalk system will shift south. Additional local pedestrian path adjustments are planned, and on Jancarza Street, the southern roadway will be closed, with traffic signals turned off.
August will be a month of intense track, road, and paving works. The first asphalt layers will appear in many sections, and some areas – such as Jancarza and Dobrego Pasterza – may be partially opened to residents.
We also invite you to watch the latest drone footage of the project.
