Lugano Tram-Train Advances: Federal Review Begins After Major Submission

The Ponte Tresa Railway has submitted a planning application to the Swiss Federal Transport Office for the first phase of the Lugano tram-train project. This step places the proposal before federal authorities for formal assessment of the route and infrastructure changes.

Route Details and Alignment Changes

The first phase covers a 4km light rail line that branches from the existing metre-gauge line at Bioggio-Molinazzo. It runs through a 2.3km tunnel before reaching a new underground station beneath the platforms at Lugano main line station. From there the alignment continues on the surface into Lugano city centre. The design avoids the longer southern route currently used on the Ponte Tresa Railway line.

Fleet Procurement Context

SFr 50m has been allocated for nine 45m-long tram-trains. These vehicles were planned to begin service on the existing line from 2019 onward, replacing the EMUs introduced in 1978. The current application focuses on the infrastructure needed to support the new alignment and integrated operations.

Decisions Ahead for the Project

With the application now lodged, the Swiss Federal Transport Office will examine the technical, environmental and operational aspects of the proposal. Any approval would determine whether the tunnel, underground station and surface extension can proceed to detailed design and construction. Further steps depend on the outcome of this federal review process, including any required modifications to the submitted plans.

The submission marks the formal start of the regulatory examination for this phase of the project. Local transport connections between the main line station and the city centre would be affected by the outcome of the review. Residents and operators along the affected sections of the existing line will follow the federal assessment for any conditions attached to an eventual decision.