Remediation of unsecured railroad crossings Kerkrade step closer

Contractor Strukton has been awarded the contract to close the unsecured level crossing on Torenstraat in Eygelshoven. A pedestrian tunnel will be constructed where the NABO (non-actively secured level crossing) is currently located.

Strukton is now starting work on the design and preparations for the construction of a new tunnel on Tower Street.

Attention to people and the environment

The assignment ProRail has given Strukton in this is that not only the design for the underpass must be good, but in addition the realization of the project must be well and carefully organized, with attention and respect for stakeholders, nature and environment. This takes into account the comments made by participants during the walk-in evening in Eygelshoven on May 28, 2019.

Planning

The goal is for the underpass to be completed in the summer of 2022, subject to planning and implementation options.

ProRail is currently in detailed discussions with contractor Strukton about how - and the conditions under which - this work can be realized in the summer of 2022. Strukton will work out the final design and work plan and submit it to ProRail for approval, this process will take place in the summer and fall period of this year (2021). As soon as the green light can be given on design and work methodology, we will notify you.

Crossing Meuser Street

In addition, ProRail and the municipality are working together to address the unsecured railroad crossing on Meuser Street in Haanrade, towards the Worm Valley.

When looking for an alternative, not only accessibility was considered, but also options that will result in the least possible inconvenience to local residents and the least possible impact on the natural area. From this, one option emerged. 

The final design is currently being finalized, which will involve upgrading the existing livestock tunnel located farther away to a pedestrian tunnel that can also be used by maintenance vehicles.

The municipality wants to make the Worm Valley and the area near Baalsbruggen more accessible to hikers. It is currently discussing with some landowners how best to make that happen.

Completion of the design of the tunnel and associated walkways and completion of all necessary municipal procedures to do so will be completed by mid-December 2021. Work on this tunnel is also planned for the summer period of 2022.

Collaboration

Kerkrade municipality and ProRail are working closely together when it comes to rehabilitating the two unprotected railroad crossings. In October 2018, we jointly launched a study of how to address these level crossings in Kerkrade. Together we are working to make the rail infrastructure safer and to preserve and further develop recreational connections to the beautiful surrounding green and natural areas.