Zurich–Winterthur line expansion advances with station works

The Zurich–Winterthur line expansion is moving ahead. As reported by RailwayPro, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and its contractors set the construction timetable. The project cost is EUR 3.6 billion. Also, the project is financed through the federal government’s railway infrastructure fund. The federal government, the cantons and others contribute to that fund.

Zurich–Winterthur line expansion and project scope

Meanwhile, modernization work is beginning at Wallisellen, Dietlikon, Bassersdorf and Winterthur Töss stations. Preparatory work for the Brütten Tunnel is already under way, according to SBB.

Separately, SBB obtained the building permit in January 2026. The route will be expanded to four tracks along its entire length. This will remove a bottleneck on one of Switzerland’s busiest railway lines.

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At the same time, further infrastructure expansions will be needed in the Canton of Zurich. This is required if the project is to deliver its full rail-service potential. These include the modernization of Zurich Stadelhofen Station, track doubling and platform extensions.

Construction schedule for stations and the Brütten Tunnel

In addition, the preparatory phase will last two months. During that period, contractors will set up construction and installation sites. SBB will prepare the railway technology. Meanwhile, major construction is due to begin in summer 2026. After the main infrastructure works are completed, the facilities will be dismantled. Under the current plan, that will happen in 2037.

Brütten Tunnel timeline

Also, the 9-kilometre Brütten Tunnel will consist of two single-track tunnels. Excavation is scheduled to start in 2029. The tunnel is due to open to traffic in 2037.

Station subprojects

For example, Wallisellen station will get wider platforms, adapted access points and underpasses. A new 580-metre single-track bridge will also be built west of the station. Construction starts in 2026. The opening is planned for 2031.

Meanwhile, Dietlikon station will gain a fourth additional track. It will also get new platform access points. A new pedestrian bridge with elevators and a new station building are also planned. Construction begins in 2027. Commissioning is planned for the summer of 2032. The Bahnhofstrasse underpass will be rebuilt at a lower level beneath the Dietlikon Tunnel. Work on that part starts in 2028. Commissioning is planned for 2031.

Also, Bassersdorf station is to receive two underpasses and step-free access to the platforms. Construction begins in 2027. Commissioning is planned for the summer of 2030.

Separately, Winterthur Töss will get a new underground passage and step-free access. Construction starts in 2027. Commissioning is planned for late 2028. In the Neumühle area, an 800-metre single-track bridge will be built over the existing tracks. Work there also begins in 2027. Commissioning is planned for 2034.

Zurich S-Bahn service plans

Still, the four-track railway expansion is the first key element. It is part of the wider development of regional transport services. The Zurich S-Bahn is described as a model of success. It carries more than 500,000 passengers a day.

In addition, passengers are expected to benefit from a planned 15-minute interval. This is planned for the longer term. Also, this is to become the standard frequency across the Zurich S-Bahn core network. More express trains will also be able to run between Zurich and Winterthur.

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