Motorists traveling on the A4 autobahn near Bergisch Gladbach should expect continued disruptions through the end of March, and into April, as crews complete final stages of a long-term roadway renewal project. Traffic heading towards Cologne will face lane restrictions and a closed on-ramp, while those traveling towards Olpe will experience single-lane traffic starting Monday evening. These ongoing adjustments are part of an effort to avoid larger, more disruptive closures in the future, according to officials.
The Autobahn GmbH, the federal agency responsible for Germany’s highways, announced that the closure of the Bergisch Gladbach-Refrath on-ramp in the direction of Cologne will remain in effect until Saturday, March 28th, at approximately 7:00 AM. A single lane will be open to traffic between the Bergisch Gladbach-Frankenforst and Bergisch Gladbach-Refrath interchanges in the same direction. This extends previously announced restrictions, initially put in place to facilitate the extensive roadwork. The primary concern for drivers is planning for increased travel times and potential congestion during peak hours.
Single-Lane Traffic Planned for Direction of Olpe
Beginning Monday, March 23rd, at 7:00 PM, and continuing until Thursday, April 2nd, at approximately 11:59 PM, the A4 in the direction of Olpe will be reduced to a single lane between the Merheim and Bergisch Gladbach-Refrath interchanges. This constriction is scheduled to allow for the removal of a temporary median crossover used during the earlier phases of the construction. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and anticipate delays during this period. The Autobahn GmbH is working to minimize disruption, but the nature of the perform necessitates the lane closure.
Years-Long Project Nears Completion
These current traffic adjustments represent the final major phase of a comprehensive renovation of the A4 between the Köln-Merheim and Bergisch Gladbach-Bensberg/Untereschbach interchanges. The project, initiated in the summer of 2023, aimed to address deteriorating road conditions and prevent the need for more extensive, long-term closures down the line. The work was divided into two main sections, with the first beginning in the autumn of 2023 and the second during the summer school holidays of 2024 and 2025. The major construction work was completed in the fall of 2025, with these current activities focused on finishing touches.
While the bulk of the renovation is complete, further, smaller-scale traffic restrictions are anticipated in May, primarily during weekends, to allow for final work at the Bergisch Gladbach-Bensberg interchange. Specific dates and times for these weekend closures will be announced by the Autobahn GmbH as they become available. Motorists can find the latest information on the project website: Projekt Fahrbahnerneuerung zwischen Köln-Merheim und Overath-Untereschbach | Die Autobahn GmbH des Bundes.
Further Repairs Anticipated Near Rastplatz Lustheide
Even after the completion of the current phase, the Autobahn GmbH anticipates the need for additional repairs in the area. Intermittent traffic restrictions are expected to continue through June, particularly around the “Lustheide” rest area. These repairs are considered essential to maintain the long-term safety and functionality of the A4.
Background: Addressing Roadway Safety
The extensive renovation of the A4 between Köln-Merheim and Bergisch Gladbach-Bensberg was initiated due to concerns about the structural integrity of the roadway. The goal was to proactively address these issues and prevent the need for more disruptive, full closures in the future. The Niederlassung Rheinland of the Autobahn GmbH began initial work in the summer of 2023, focusing on sections heading towards Olpe. This initial work was considered a preventative measure to address the most urgent concerns.
The project was strategically divided into two construction phases to minimize overall disruption. The first phase, between Bergisch Gladbach-Bensberg and Bergisch Gladbach-Refrath, began in the fall of 2023. The second phase, between Köln-Merheim and Bergisch Gladbach-Refrath, took place during the summer school holidays in 2024 and 2025. The main construction work for the first phase was completed in the fall of 2025, and current efforts are focused on finalizing the project.
As reported on March 9th, the single-lane restriction in the direction of Cologne between Frankenforst and Refrath was expected to remain in place until approximately March 23rd. This was to allow for the completion of remaining work and the removal of temporary traffic management infrastructure related to the renovation.
Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about the latest traffic conditions and plan their routes accordingly. The Autobahn GmbH will continue to provide updates as the project progresses. The next scheduled update regarding weekend closures at Bergisch Gladbach-Bensberg is expected in late April.
Please share this information with anyone who may be affected by these traffic changes. Your comments and questions are welcome below.
