Bordeaux Tramway – Line C Extension
SYSTRA was chosen to manage the project to integrate a 7.2km single track tram-train line into the landholding already allotted to railway infrastructures between Bordeaux and Pointe de Grave.
Called “the Médoc Tram-Train” during the planning stage, the extension of Line C of the Bordeaux tramway serves the towns of Bruges and Branquefort. Its aim is to improve public transport access to the north east Bordeaux conurbation.
This new branch is a gateway to the city for Médoc residents, serves six stations located in Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Bruges, and has a new terminus for Line C at the Gare de Blanquefort. Almost 4,500 new passengers are expected each day, with trams running every 15 minutes.
The track bed was designed for use by mixed tram, tram/train and train traffic: over time, the line is authorised to receive traffic divided between passenger trains, freight and tramways thanks to a design which takes into account traffic development assumptions. In order to ensure an optimal passenger service, the stations have been equipped with passing loops, and the Bruges and Blanquefort stops provide connections with the TER regional express network for a multi-modal transport offering.
SYSTRA’s missions
After conducting the feasibility study to ascertain whether it would be possible to use existing railway landholdings or infrastructures for tram traffic, the consortium led by SYSTRA was chosen to manage the tram-train project. This assignment included:
- Production of preliminary studies;
- Production of preliminary and detailed designs and technical specifications;
- Tender assistance (works and equipment);
- Management of planning studies certificates and the planning committee;
- Management of procurement contracts (works and equipment);
- Acceptance operation assistance;
- Production of as-built plans;
- Scheduling, supervising and co-ordinating construction site activities.