Riehenring Roadwork: Final Phase and Weekend closure

Significant progress is being made on the Riehenring, with the construction and traffic department of BVB and IWB scheduled to lay the final road surface layer between Klingentalstrasse and Kreisel Riehenstrasse, including the “Messeplatz” stop. This crucial phase is slated for Saturday, April 26th, and Sunday, April 27th.

To allow for the proper hardening of the new surface, the Riehenring section will be completely closed to both car and bicycle traffic throughout the weekend.The road is expected to reopen on Monday, April 28th, at 7:00 AM. On-site signage will guide traffic, and while tram services will remain unaffected, pedestrian access will be limited to sidewalks, with street crossings restricted during the construction phase.In the event of adverse weather conditions, the surfacing work will be postponed.

Clarastrasse Renewal: Progress Halted by Legal recourse

While the Riehenring project is nearing completion,the broader Clarastrasse renewal project faces delays. The ongoing work is currently suspended to accommodate major events such as the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, Art Basel, and the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.However, a more significant obstacle has emerged: pending legal recourse.

The exact timeline for the completion of the Clarastrasse renewal remains uncertain due to these legal challenges. The original plan included several key improvements, such as widening sidewalks with Alpnacher Quartz sandstone plates, planting three additional trees, and upgrading the Clarastrasse and Claraplatz stops to facilitate continuous passenger boarding and alighting. These enhancements aim to improve accessibility and the overall pedestrian experience.

Future Adaptations and Infrastructure Upgrades

Despite the current delays, some aspects of the Clarastrasse project are expected to move forward in the coming months. The construction and traffic department anticipates adapting the street edges and sidewalks to align with the relocated tracks on the Riehenring. This work, planned for autumn 2025, is subject to a building permit for undisputed construction work.

Furthermore, separate building permits are expected to be issued in late summer for the age-related replacement of a switch on Claraplatz and the conversion of the “exhibition center” stop. Similar to the Clarastrasse and Claraplatz stops, the upgraded “exhibition center” stop will allow for continuous passenger boarding and alighting, further enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of public transportation in the area.

The Broader Context of Urban Infrastructure Investment

The Clarastrasse renewal project is part of a broader trend of urban infrastructure investment aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. According to a recent report by the Swiss federal Statistical Office, Switzerland invests approximately 3% of its GDP annually in infrastructure projects, including transportation, energy, and communication networks. This commitment to infrastructure advancement is crucial for maintaining Switzerland’s competitiveness and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

“Investing in modern and efficient infrastructure is essential for supporting economic growth and enhancing the well-being of our citizens.”
– Swiss Federal Department of Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC)