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Bilzen-Hoeselt railway line reopened after successful completion of works by BESIX
Belgium’s largest railway crossing project
BESIX and BESIX Infra, with Franki Foundations as subcontractor, are realising Belgium’s largest railway crossing project ever on behalf of Infrabel, De Lijn, AWV, Aquafin NV and the city of Bilzen-Hoeselt. Since March 2024, we’ve been hard at work replacing no fewer than seven level crossings with two bridges and four tunnels. This Design & Build project features several technical feats aimed at keeping disruption to an absolute minimum.
As part of the project, a temporary line closure along the line Bilzen-Hoeselt took place last week, from 8 to 16 November. Thanks to the dedication of BESIX, BESIX Infra and Franki Foundations, the planned works were completed smoothly and safely. BESIX extends its thanks to all partners and stakeholders for their excellent collaboration.
BESIX Group driving the renewal
During this intensive week, BESIX successfully installed two new pedestrian and cyclist tunnels at Laarstraat and Laakstraat. Using advanced hydraulic sliding techniques, the tunnel sections were positioned beneath the tracks, a process executed flawlessly from both a technical and logistical standpoint. In a later phase, cycle paths will be laid through the concrete troughs of the tunnels, along with road surfacing and landscaping around the tunnel zones.
At Sint-Lambertuslaan, BESIX and BESIX Infra, with support from Franki Foundations, carried out major foundation works in preparation for a future road tunnel. This tunnel will not only improve traffic flow but will also accommodate a new cycle route on its roof. Every detail was handled with precision and quality, ensuring the next construction phases can start efficiently.
Laakstraat Tunnel:
Weight: 535 tonnes
Dimensions: 20.8-metre-long, 3.9-metre-high, 6.6-metre-wide
Laakstraat Tunnel:
Weight: 425 tonnes
Dimensions: 17.7-metre-long, 3.7-metre-high, 6.5-metre-wide
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A major boost for Bilzen and the area
The successful execution of these works by BESIX and BESIX Infra marks a significant step forward for the region. Replacing level crossings with tunnels and bridges will greatly enhance safety for all road users. Waiting at closed crossings will soon be a thing of the past, and accessibility to Bilzen and Hoeselt will improve dramatically.
With this project, BESIX Group once again proves itself as a trusted partner for complex infrastructure works. Thanks to meticulous planning, innovative construction methods and strong collaboration with all stakeholders, the works during this TLO were completed on time, with minimal inconvenience to the local community.