HOV Hasselt - Maasmechelen

The Challenge

The province of Limburg is embracing innovation and sustainability, yet car dependency remains significantly higher than in other regions. To tackle this imbalance, the Flemish government launched the Spartacus plan, positioning public transport as a key driver of Limburg’s future development. Within this vision, Line 2 defines a 39 km high-performance transport (HPT) route connecting Hasselt, Diepenbeek, Genk, and Maasmechelen. The challenge was to design a solution that not only improves mobility but also encourages a cultural shift toward sustainable travel and supports urban renewal.

The Solution

Tractebel’s approach goes beyond building a tram-bus line. The project integrates high-quality public spaces at each stop, creating welcoming and recognizable environments that fit seamlessly into the local context. By combining safe pedestrian and cycling routes with smooth, weather-protected transfers, we enable convenient multimodal journeys. Our design promotes both physical and mental modal shifts, encouraging people to adopt sustainable transport options. Through thoughtful urban integration, the HPT route becomes a catalyst for livability and sustainability across Limburg.

The Impact

The Spartacus project will transform mobility in Limburg, reducing car dependency and fostering a new way of traveling, living, and working. Enhanced connectivity and vibrant public spaces at stops have revitalized the urban fabric, making neighborhoods more attractive and accessible. By aligning with Limburg’s sustainability goals, the project sets a benchmark for integrated transport solutions that combine ecological responsibility with social value.