Masterplan for Biel/Bienne Train Station
Creating a thriving public realm around Biel/Bienne’s train station
Train stations are vibrant yet challenging urban hubs, juggling the needs of diverse users, competing spatial demands, and complex infrastructure. Biel/Bienne’s bustling station area is no exception. With its unique character and growing demands, the area needs a strategic vision to stay relevant, resilient, and ready for future transformations. Credit: Tankstellenidau
Bahnhofstrasse is currently an underutilized urban space that lacks greenery, cycling infrastructure, and inviting areas for people to linger. It falls short of addressing the needs of its many users. Gehl’s mobility experts saw its potential as a thriving commercial street that could serve as a crucial link between Biel/Bienne’s city center and the train station. Credit: Gehl
The redesign of Bahnhofstrasse to improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. The station square is envisioned to offer multifunctional spaces, including a water feature, seating under trees, dedicated areas and pavilions for hosting events and activities. Credit: Gehl
Our Public Space Plan establishes a hierarchy of public spaces around the train station, with a standout feature being a green boulevard that seamlessly connects the city center to the station. Key elements include an updated circulation plan for all traffic modes, the creation of smaller plazas, the revitalization of the central station square, the relocation of the bus terminal, and the development of a green spine in the station’s southern area. Credit: Gehl