Uppsala next Swedish city to invest in tramway

Sweden’s fourth largest city, Uppsala with 177 000 residents, was founded in 1164 and has the country’s oldest university (1477). A first generation tramway closed in 1953 but now plans are well on the way to bring back trams to the city by 2029. By 2050 the population is expected to exceed 300 000 and by then the city hopes that 75% of movement will be by foot, bicycle or public transport. Sustainable growth means developing new residential areas and business premises connected through improved transport infrastructure. 

 

Only trams will be able to handle the passenger flows effectively. The new 17km system will connect a new railway station in the Bergsbrunna development area with the University, city centre and Central Station, with two different lines serving different suburbs. By 2050 100 000 tram journeys/day are expected (at present city buses carry 15 000 passengers/day). The cost estimate for the project is SEK 6.1bn plus SEK 2.1bn for trams and a depot. This includes new bridges, water protection measures and new bike lanes, It is hoped the Swedish state will meet half the cost. In the meantime detailed planning continues. The tramway is evidence of the city’s long-term desire to develop attractive urban environments and good communications, creating opportunities for more homes, shops and workplaces.