UNS is proud to be part of the winning consortium selected by the Budapest Development Agency (BFK) to conduct a feasibility study for a transformative railway tunnel under central Budapest. This ambitious project aims to enhance the city’s rail network, creating stronger connections between the Hungarian capital, its suburban regions, and major cities across the country.

The contract was officially signed on November 29, marking the start of an 18-month study that will explore the potential of this critical infrastructure project.

The proposed railway tunnel represents a significant step forward for urban and suburban rail in Budapest. David Vitézy, CEO of BFK, emphasized the importance of the project: “This long-term investment would create significant extra capacity for more rail services to Budapest from the suburban region and the major cities of Hungary and beyond.”

The study will address all aspects of the project, including

• Route selection

• Conceptual railway scheduling for the region

• Engineering and construction feasibility

• Cost-benefit analysis, including wider economic benefits

• Detailed construction cost assessments

• Urban planning and design vision for new stations and unused railway lands

UNS will lead the architectural and urban planning efforts for the areas surrounding the main stations, ensuring that the project not only improves connectivity but also enhances the urban fabric of Budapest.

A Collaborative Effort
The consortium, which includes UNS, FŐMTERV Civil Engineering Design Pte. Ltd, and SMA & Partners, brings together expertise in engineering, urban planning, and design. Together, the team will deliver a comprehensive study that will inform the decision on whether to proceed with the tunnel’s construction after 2022.

Building on a Legacy of Mobility Design
UNS has a long-standing history of designing infrastructure and mobility projects that prioritize connectivity, sustainability, and user experience. Recent projects include the Doha Metro Network in Qatar and the Arnhem Central Railway Station in the Netherlands. In 2018, UNS also collaborated with Buro Happold Engineering to design a vision for the New Budapest Bridge.

This new study represents another opportunity for UNS to contribute to the future of mobility in Budapest, creating a more connected and accessible city for its residents and visitors.

Stay tuned for updates as the project progresses.