The challenge
How to design a high-speed rail line that connects the eastern part of France and neighboring countries Germany and Switzerland to Paris through the heart of Dijon. A number of complicating elements determine the most favourable positioning of the future lines. To the west, the new line crosses a hilly landscape. Hosting the ramp between valleys and plateau without extra civil engineering costs and limiting the environmental impact are the challenges. To the southeast, high-speed trains have to travel through the densely constructed area of Dijon, next to a rail corridor with many freight and regional trains. Not an ideal situation for developing a new railway station.

The approach
ARCADIS' proposal for the west branch provides a cost-efficient yet environmentally friendly solution. In congested Dijon, the high-speed rail line to the southeast travels underground. Aboveground, the new north-south line through Dijon mainly uses an existing rail corridor. Finally, strategically situated at the intersection of these lines is the new double-deck rail station. Close to the city center. Providing direct access to other means of public transport.

The result
A tour de France in one day. Pushing boundaries. Connections that perfectly align. Linking Dijon at the center to destinations in any direction, with any type of transport service.