Single-track operation and public transport priority: the second phase of the modernisation project of Vajnorská radial route is underway

The second phase of the Tramway Track Repair and Tram Stop Modernisation Project in the Kuchajda - Zlaté Piesky section will bring a new track superstructure to those parts in the Jurajov dvor - Zlaté Piesky section where it was not implemented during the first phase. At the same time, along the whole of the radial route, work on the stops will be completed, installing equipment, shelters and new coloured information boards displaying real-time departures and current traffic events. In association with City Hall, we have also incorporated a replacement of the technology at the Vajnorská × Bojnická intersection which, once completed, will ensure priority for public transport vehicles and will make the intersection safer for all road-users. This will result in a more comfortable and faster journey for passengers and better working conditions for our drivers.

"I am delighted that this important project is moving forward successfully. In quite a short time we managed to complete the most difficult first phase of the repair of the radial route and now we are starting work on the final stage so that people will be able to use a modern, safer, faster and quieter track from the beginning of the summer. Improving public transport has long been one of our top priorities, as demonstrated by this project to upgrade the Vajnorská radial route, which will make a significant contribution to making our public transport more reliable, safer and faster. I would like to thank the residents of Bratislava for their patience with the restrictions that are entailed in the renovation of the track. However, I am convinced that both passengers and our drivers will appreciate the result of the work in the form of a more comfortable ride on the new track," says Mayor Vallo.

A unique solution in Bratislava Work will commence next weekend, 17 - 18 February 2024, when trams in the section Jurajov dvor Depot - Zlaté Piesky will be replaced by buses. This closure will provide space to install rail connectors, which will allow us to maintain traffic along the entire Vajnorská radial route in the coming weeks. To preserve the traffic, the DPB opted for a unique solution in Bratislava.

In the almost seven-hundred-metre stretch between the stops Jurajov dvor and Vajnorská, trams with passengers will run bidirectionally on the same track. Traffic control will be dynamic in the single-track section with priority for trams heading towards the centre. After three weeks, traffic will be rerouted to the new track. This change will again require a weekend closure in the section Jurajov dvor Depot - Vajnorská. Then the traffic will continue on just one track until the end of March.

We tested a similar solution during the first phase of the project, when we conducted empty rides to the depot on a single track. In the past, the track couplers, the "Californiens", were mainly used for the turnaround of two-way trams during the renovation of the track in Karlova Ves or on the waterfront.

"Modernisation of tram transport on the Vajnorská radial route is vital and I am glad that the city and the Bratislava Transport Company are seeking out solutions that will provide alternative options for the duration of the works. As a New Town resident, I appreciate the investment that the city is allocating to tram transport along Vajnorská which is used by so many New Town residents and passengers who work here. The modern tram track will ensure a faster connection between Zlaté Piesky and the city. As we are preparing for the development of the eastern part of the territory as a city district, an adjusted public transport system is what is really necessary in the first place," adds Matúš Čupka, New Town Mayor.

Vajnorská × Bojnická intersection with public transport priority The project has been modified in association with Bratislava City Hall to reflect the needs of many Bratislava residents. The second phase of the Tramway Track Repair and Tram Stop Modernisation Project in the Kuchajda - Zlaté Piesky section also includes the Vajnorská × Bojnická intersection. In addition to replacement of the track superstructure, the DPB, in association with the stakeholders involved, has also incorporated construction modifications facilitating replacement of the road traffic signalling technology. Also, works on the high-pressure gas pipeline, which could not be completed during the first phase, will be carried out. These construction modifications will require a complete closure of tram operation along the whole of the affected section (Jurajov dvor Depot - Zlaté Piesky) in April and May. Accordingly, the crossing of the tracks at the Vajnorská × Bojnická intersection will not be possible, and a part of Stará Vajnorská will be unidirectional.

"Several months of intensive work lie ahead for us on the Vajnorská radial route. Our colleagues are doing everything they can to minimise the impact of the work on passengers. We managed to complete the first phase in record time, and I believe that, by the end of June, passengers will appreciate the outcome in the form of a modern track and fast and comfortable transport," says Michal Halomi, DPB’s Board Member.

The traffic in the section Jurajov dvor Depot - Zlaté Piesky will be covered by a replacement bus service X4. Compared to the first phase in autumn 2023, this is a shorter section; tram traffic in the section Kuchajda - Jurajov dvor Depot will remain intact. The complete tram closure is a compromise solution that will enable acceleration of the pace of work on the remaining part of the renovated section, which allows us to resume tram traffic as early as the end of May. Completion works will still be carried out up to the end of June 2024.

The Tramway Track Repair and Tram Stops Modernisation Project in the Kuchajda - Zlaté Piesky section will lead to faster and more comfortable travelling and will enhance the comfort and awareness of passengers at the stops. Last but not least, the safety and reliability of tram operation will be improved. This project would not have been feasible without the non-repayable financial contribution from the EU funds under the Operational Programme Integrated Infrastructure.