Żory Overpass Opens, Boosting Road Safety and Train Speed

A new 62‑metre road overpass has been opened in Żory, Silesian Voivodeship, replacing a level crossing on Dworcowa Street. Built by Budimex for PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe as part of the modernization of railway line 148 between Pszczyna and Żory, the structure includes widened sidewalks, stairs, two elevators for people with reduced mobility and a dedicated bicycle path. The project also added a parallel bridge over the Ruda river and upgraded surrounding road intersections.

The overpass, valued at about 67 million zł within a total investment of 360 million zł, allows trains to resume service on 30 August with increased maximum speeds—up to 160 km/h for passenger trains and 120 km/h for freight. Travel time between Pszczyna and Żory is expected to drop from roughly 32 minutes to 21 minutes. Project leaders such as Wojciech Głuc, director at Budimex, and Janusz Kanik, PKP project director, highlighted the safety and efficiency benefits for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and rail passengers.