In a trend that seems to have become the norm with such projects, the timeline and cost of the Brenner Base Tunnel have once again changed. The opening date was moved from 2032 to 2034, while the total cost went from €10.5 to €11.7 billion, according to BBT, the company in charge of construction.
“According to current forecasts, construction on the BBT will be completed in 2033. The necessary testing, trial operations, official authorisations, and final works are scheduled for 2034”, BBT added. “The updated timeline forecast goes hand in hand with an adjustment of the total cost. The current cost forecast for the Brenner Base Tunnel stands at around €11.7 billion.”
From exploratory to service tunnel
The confirmation of the delayed opening comes a few weeks after ScanMed, the corridor where the Brenner will be, warned about possible further delays. The main cause behind the longer timeframe is the transformation of the exploratory tunnel into a service tunnel. The tube runs 12 metres below the two main ones, it is six metres wide and it took 17 years to excavate.
“Specifically, this means that many technical systems will be relocated into the service tunnel running centrally beneath the main rail tubes”, BBT pointed out. This, the company argues, will increase safety as access to these systems by the maintenance crews will not require them to enter the main rail tunnels and block traffic.
Three factors driving higher costs
BBT explained that there are three driving factors linked to the 11% increase in costs. The main one is work needed for the exploratory-turned-service tunnel, which will need additional structures and more time. The second factor stems from new technologies and safety standards which made railway systems equipment more expensive. Lastly, BBT mentioned “price increases and inflation”.
Unreasonable estimates?
Over the past 10 years, the opening date of the Brenner Base Tunnel has moved from 2026 to 2034. On top of that, the estimated costs went from €9.3 billion in 2020 to the current €11.7 billion, a spike higher than 25%. In the meantime, rail freight operators continue to struggle for survival, with volumes moving to the road all over the continent.