Reducing emissions by extending public transport system in Ghent, Belgium

The Oude Dokken district in Ghent, Belgium, has been undergoing a transformation from gritty industrial port to vibrant waterfront district since 2004. Cargo ships have given way to paddleboards, and dockyards to green spaces, cycle paths and even a beach. To meet the growing transport needs serving the increasingly popular area, Ghent’s tram line 4 will be extended by 1,500 meters between Neuseplein et Dampoort. 

Tractebel will support the City of Ghent (Stad Gent), Flemish transport company De Lijn and clients AWV and Farys in the extension of the tram line through elaboration of the design, technical support for the tender phase for contractors and site follow-up. 

In the first phase of the project, the area around Neuseplein, Voormuide and Muidelaan will be redesigned to ensure connections between the various tramways. The next phase, the extension of tram line 4, is slated to begin in 2024. The new tram line will enable De Lijn to reconfigure tram traffic, contributing to better and greener mobility within the city of Ghent. 

Particular attention will be paid to both mobility and environmental considerations. The design includes significant improvements to public spaces, such as the complete reorganization of the complex Neuseplein intersection. Cyclists and pedestrians will soon be able to cross the busy Ghent ring road in a safer and more comfortable way: by passing under it via a newly reopened and refurbished tunnel. The project is scheduled to wrap up in 2025.

"We are delighted to have a significant role to play in this important project. The new tram line will help reduce emissions by extending Ghent’s public transport system, but the improved network of adjacent bike and pedestrian pathways will also encourage alternate modes of sustainable mobility. The Oude Dokken revitalization project exemplifies Tractebel’s commitment to reducing our carbon footprint while building greener, more livable cities." 
Alexandre Vanheule, Tractebel Business Development and Sales Director, Belgium 

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