PROJECT STORY
The challenge
Berlin is growing — and a strong public transport network is more important than ever. The upcoming embankment restoration will help to strengthen the U6 subway line for the future.
U6 embankment restoration
Boosting Berlin's U6 subway: embankment to be replaced
The solution
The plans for the U6 embankment restoration have been finalized and construction is due to commence in 2021. The vision? Construction engineering at the very highest level.
The impact
The U6 embankment restoration will optimize the connection between Tegel and Mariendorf.
2021
start of construction
2
trough structures
The challenge
Berlin is one of the world's most popular major cities — and it's growing. To enable its citizens to travel swiftly from A to B and to reach their homes, offices, theaters and sports facilities in a way that is both convenient and environmentally friendly, a strong public transport network is essential. Berlin's subway network is a key part of its local transport infrastructure. The embankment on the U6 line between Kurt-Schumacher-Platz and the Borsigwerke station is in need of restoration. The plans have been finalized and construction is due to commence at the end of 2021.
The solution
The double-track U6 subway line, which runs partially overground, is in need of some essential infrastructure restoration and modernization work. Exploratory research found that the stability of the embankment between Kurt-Schumacher-Platz and the Borsigwerke station could not be confirmed. As part of the infrastructure planning process, Arcadis defined a number of clear steps that can be implemented from the end of 2021.
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Embankment excavation and compression
Across its entire cross-section, the embankment will be excavated to a depth of two meters below the rail track and compressed. To secure the embankment, a soldier pile wall will be constructed close to the existing embankment shoulder, which will act in conjunction with the existing embankment slope. The new construction will support the cable duct.
The Arcadis team also looked closely at transitional areas around bridges. The entire rail track construction (rails, ties and ballast), the rail power system and the cable troughs will be replaced. Existing cable troughs will be removed and replaced by new, easily accessible channels. Drainage systems running alongside the track will be repaired.
Legacy Waste Investigation
Before the planning of the infrastructure and construction engineering works could get underway, Arcadis was instructed by the Berlin transport authorities to conduct a geotechnical survey, investigate the legacy waste and repair damaged trough structures.
It is great to see that there is a clear plan for the phased restoration and modernization of the U6 between Kurt-Schumacher-Platz and the Borsigwerke station. This work will ensure that our transport network is fit for the future.
The impact
Berlin's U6 subway line, which spans a distance of just under 20 kilometers between Tegel and Mariendorf, is a key part of the public transport network in the German capital. The restoration and modernization of the embankment structure and other infrastructure from the end of 2021 will strengthen the network for the future and cement the subway as an attractive transport option for people traveling around Berlin.
