Lugano Tram-Train: First sites in October, operational by 2035 (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Preliminary works will start at the end of October 2026.
• The network will be operational by 2035.
• Ten executive design mandates have been awarded for a total of 44.8 million francs.

Key facts

• What: Start of preliminary works for the Lugano Tram-Train Network.
• When: End of October 2026.
• Where: Between Manno and Bioggio.
• Who: RTTL SA.
• Amount: 44.8 million francs.

The Lugano Tram-Train Network is preparing to enter the implementation phase. The first preliminary works will start at the end of October 2026 on the section between Manno and Bioggio, where the counter-river walls will be built. The start of the main works is confirmed for the first half of 2027. The goal set by RTTL SA is to put the new network into operation by 2035.

Almost three years after the company was founded, the project has taken new steps forward. A total of ten executive design mandates have been awarded, for a total of 44.8 million francs. The division of activities into thematic packages has allowed the involvement of 25 different design offices.

A decisive step was taken on June 25. The Federal Court rejected the request for a suspensive effect presented with the only appeal filed with the High Court. The decision made the approval of the plans of March 7, 2023, enforceable, creating the conditions to proceed with the implementation phase.

Meanwhile, tender procedures for the first works have been launched and the first awards have already been made. The preliminary works of the end of October will be the first visible interventions on the territory and will precede the opening of the main construction sites.

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Operational details

Impact on frontier workers

The implementation of the Lugano Tram-Train Network will have a significant impact on border workers who work and live in the region. The new network will improve connections between the various municipalities, reducing travel times and facilitating daily travel.

New Links

The new network includes two new connections: one to Manno-Suglio and one to Lugano Centro. These connections will be made through a tramway on the side of the cantonal road and a viaduct, respectively. These improvements will make travel easier for border workers working in these areas.

Breganzona Gallery

The Breganzona tunnel, about 2.2 kilometres long, will allow Bioggio to be connected to the centre of Lugano in about seven minutes. This quick and direct connection will be particularly useful for border workers who work in Lugano and reside in neighbouring municipalities.

Information evenings

In view of the opening of the construction sites, RTTL SA organised two information evenings for the population. The first will be held on 15 September in Bioggio and the second on 6 October in Manno. During these meetings, the progress of the project, the next steps and the construction site activities will be illustrated. Border workers are invited to participate to be informed about news and changes that will affect their daily movements.

Next step

The priority stage of the Network

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Key points

Actions for border workers

Border workers who will be affected by the work of the Lugano Tram-Train Network must be informed and prepared for the changes that will affect their daily movements. Here are some concrete actions you can take:

Attending information evenings

Border workers are invited to attend the information evenings organised by RTTL SA. The first will be held on 15 September in Bioggio and the second on 6 October in Manno. During these meetings, the progress of the project, the next steps and the construction site activities will be illustrated. Participation in these evenings will allow border crossers to be informed about news and changes that will affect their daily movements.

Plan alternative routes

During the construction phase of the Lugano Tram-Train Network, there may be interruptions or deviations in the usual routes. Border crossers must plan alternative routes to avoid delays and inconvenience. It is advisable to use alternative means of transport or change travel times to adapt to changes.

Using public transportation

The new tram-train network will improve connections between the various municipalities, making public transport a more convenient solution for border crossers. It is advisable to use public transport for daily travel, taking advantage of new connections and reduced travel times.

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Source: ticinonews.ch