Modernisation of Austria's longest road tunnel
Renovation of the Arlberg Tunnel
Tirol/Vorarlberg, Austria / 01.2023 - 12.2024
The Arlberg Tunnel is one of the most important transport links between Tyrol and Vorarlberg and also Austria's longest road tunnel. As part of a comprehensive refurbishment and modernisation programme, this key piece of infrastructure has been brought up to the latest technical standards. The work was carried out in two intensive summer construction phases and placed the highest demands on planning, logistics and execution. The aim was to sustainably increase the tunnel's performance, safety and service life.
Facts & Figures
Company
PORR Bau GmbH
Type
Tunneling, Tunneling
Runtime
01.2023 - 12.2024
Future-proof infrastructure between Tyrol and Vorarlberg
Due to the tight time frame, all work was carried out on a continuous 24/7 basis. At peak times, up to 150 skilled workers were working simultaneously in the tunnel to complete the numerous measures on schedule. In the course of the renovation, large quantities of existing material were removed, extensive sections of the main tunnel drainage system were rebuilt, the raised hard shoulder was renewed and the concrete carriageway, including the asphalt base course, was completely rebuilt. The coordinated execution of this work within a highly compressed timeframe underlines the company's performance and experience in complex infrastructure construction.
Sustainability through innovative construction methods
Despite the technical and scheduling challenges, great importance was attached to sustainability and resource conservation. A significant portion of the removed concrete pavement could be reused directly on site. This eliminated numerous truck trips and saved valuable landfill space. This approach not only reduced emissions, but also contributed to efficient and environmentally conscious project execution. The project demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can be successfully combined even in demanding tunnel construction work.
Complex logistics and precise coordination
The entire construction process placed the highest demands on logistics and organisation. Limited space in the tunnel, the precise timing of material deliveries and the coordinated deployment of equipment and personnel required exact planning and ongoing coordination. At the same time, working in the confined tunnel cross-section demanded a high degree of commitment and flexibility from the entire team. Thanks to the great commitment of all those involved, both the schedule and the quality specifications were fully met. With the successful completion of the renovation, the Arlberg Tunnel is once again available as an efficient, safe and sustainable transport link, making a significant contribution to sustainable mobility in Austria.
