Bern West Transformed: Railway Expansion & Ausserholligen’s Bold New Future – Breaking News
Bern, Switzerland is on the cusp of a significant transformation. A massive railway expansion project in Bern West is underway, coupled with the ambitious redevelopment of the Ausserholligen area. This isn’t just about trains and tracks; it’s about reshaping a key part of the city and creating a vibrant new urban district. This is a breaking news story with long-term implications for residents, commuters, and the future of Bern’s infrastructure. We’re diving deep into the details, and what it means for you.
The Heart of the Project: The Holligen Tunnel
At the core of this ambitious undertaking is the new Holligen Tunnel, a 1.7-kilometer passage designed to dramatically improve rail flexibility. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with an anticipated completion date of 2034. Imagine a future where train schedules are more reliable and capacity is significantly increased – that’s the promise of this tunnel. The tunnel will run from the island parking lot area to around Europaplatz train station, effectively streamlining rail traffic through a congested area.
Disruption & Progress: Station Closures & New Infrastructure
Change often comes with temporary inconvenience. The BLS-Stöckacker train station will be closing this December, leaving commuters without a stop on the Bern-Neuchâtel line for nearly two years. While a temporary setback, this closure is a necessary step in the larger plan. Alongside the tunnel, a new Europaplatz Nord train station is being built, and the Aebimatt parking facility will be expanded. The west head near Bern train station is also receiving upgrades. All of this adds up to a substantial investment – around 900 million Swiss Francs – demonstrating the commitment to modernizing Bern’s rail network.
Ausserholligen: From Neglect to a Premium Urban District
But the story doesn’t end with the railway. Ausserholligen, once a somewhat overlooked area, is being reimagined as a “premium development focus” for the canton of Bern. The city is planning a completely new urban district, backed by a 176 million Swiss Franc credit line approved by Bern voters in 2024. This isn’t just about building structures; it’s about creating a thriving community.
A Vision for the Future: Living, Working & Green Spaces
The plans for Ausserholligen are ambitious: apartments for approximately 3,500 people, space for up to 8,000 jobs, and dedicated areas for sports, leisure, and cultural activities. Crucially, the development prioritizes green space, with plans for 50,000 square meters of parks and gardens. The city stream, currently hidden, will be exposed over a length of 500 meters, adding a natural element to the urban landscape. This focus on quality of life is a key differentiator for this project.
Long-Term Impact & the Bern Rail Hub
This project is a vital component of the long-term expansion of the Bern rail hub. The ultimate goal is to increase capacity for both passenger and freight transport, and to enable a quarter-hourly service on the S-Bahn network throughout the agglomeration. Full commissioning of all sub-projects is anticipated around 2036. This isn’t just a short-term fix; it’s a strategic investment in the future of Bern’s transportation infrastructure and urban development. The ripple effects will be felt for generations to come.
The transformation of Bern West and Ausserholligen represents a bold vision for the future of the city. It’s a testament to the power of strategic investment and forward-thinking urban planning. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this evolving story, and for in-depth analysis of the latest developments in urban infrastructure and sustainable city design. Explore our other articles on Swiss infrastructure projects and urban renewal initiatives to stay informed about the changing landscape of Europe’s cities.