Schöneiche Rüdersdorfer Tram 88 nearby Berlin (2011)

Description

The tram line in Schöneiche-Rüdersdorf runs along the border of Berlin, with part of it operating within Berlin's territory. It has 1000mm tracks, while Berlin's are 1435mm; there is no connection between the two systems, even though both serve the Friedrichshagen S-Bahn station.

The tram system started in 1910 with benzene-powered locomotives and trailers and was electrified in 1912. In 1977, it was extended to Alt-Rüdersdorf; previously, this stop was in Kalkberge. Since 1929, no new trams have been purchased; instead, used trams from other cities have been acquired.

During GDR times, Reko and Gotha trams operated, followed by the Tatra KT4D from Cottbus, and since 1999, DUEWAG GT6 from Heidelberg. In 2009, they bought a Tatra KTNF6 from Cottbus, which has been in operation since 2010, and they are interested in acquiring two more. With four trams needed on weekdays, there’s potential to provide 75% low-floor service in the future.

They intended to modernize and rebuild their old KT4D trams into KTNF6 models in the mid-90s, but Mittenwalder Gerätebau went bankrupt, and this plan was abandoned. However, the tram depot was already prepared for this tram type, which benefits current operations.

While KTNF6 trams improve passenger comfort, the network needs to accommodate unidirectional vehicles. Several years ago, plans were made to extend the Friedrichshagen terminus to the other side of the road. This was necessary because there are no traffic lights or pedestrian crossings, which could be dangerous when connecting the S-Bahn station and the tram.

Attempts to connect the Berlin network with the SRS were not realized. Instead, a third rail was planned to be built to the SRS depot for a turning loop for Berlin trams.

Stops

S-Bahnhof Friedrichshagen → Alt Rüdersdorf → Dorfstraße → Waldstraße → Rahnsdörfer Straße → Museumspark → Breitscheidstraße → Rathaus.

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