SBB, in cooperation with the City of Bern and BLS, is launching one of the region’s most important infrastructure projects, the “Bern West performance upgrade”. The aim is to make the Bern railway junction more flexible, more stable and more efficient. The major project comprises five sub-projects, including the new Holligentunnel, the Europaplatz Nord railway station and the Steigerhubel overpass.
A milestone for the Bern railway junction
A particular focus is on improving regional transport. The new Holligen tunnel will allow regional trains to run without crossings, enabling stable and more frequent connections, such as the quarter-hourly service between Münsingen and Flamatt. The urban Europaplatz neighbourhood will also have a direct connection to public transport thanks to the new station and a larger subway.
Challenges for travellers and residents
Rail operations will be maintained during the construction period, which will last until at least 2036. Nevertheless, travellers will have to be prepared for timetable changes and replacement buses. Stöckacker station will close in December 2025 and will be replaced by tram line 8 until Europaplatz Nord opens in 2027.
For local residents, the work will result in restrictions due to construction noise, dust and logistics traffic. However, the builders promise to minimise emissions as far as possible and to carry out replacement planting for felled trees.
Sustainable future and financing
The total cost of the project is around 900 million Swiss francs and will be financed by the federal government’s 2025 expansion programme. The new pedestrian subway at Europaplatz Nord, a contribution from the City of Bern, will be covered by a framework credit of CHF 60 million.
With the completion of the “Bern West performance upgrade”, Bern’s railway infrastructure will meet the requirements of modern, sustainable mobility – a benefit for the entire region.
