Motorway Encasement N6 / Pulverweg, Berne

By utilizing the urban development potential and covering the N6 motorway, an open wound in the urban fabric is closed. Along the city street Pulverweg, a connecting seam is created that allows the two distinct neighborhoods of Baumgarten and Galgenfeld to grow together.

The main portal of the N6 lies in line with the high-rise building—between the large-scale structures of the Arena and the tram depot. On the south side, the partial N6 access is integrated into the new city street between the cemetery wall and building façade.

Between Guisanplatz and Ostring, an urban street space is created as a tangential link for all modes of transport (public transport, private motorized transport, and active mobility). The intersections are emphasized through architectural design and become key orientation points in the Wankdorf–Bolligenstrasse area.

By networking open spaces and creating a fine-grained system of green areas, squares, streets, and pathways, the supply of public space is improved. New connections (e.g., Galgenfeld–Baumgarten) and communal spaces (e.g., Schosshaldenplatz) emerge.

The adjacent industrial and commercial district of Galgenfeld offers many spaces and niches that are no longer readily available in typical urban environments. This usage and character should be fundamentally preserved. Through a newly defined urban edge, the Galgenfeld neighborhood gains a clear address and identity.

With increased density and the motorway cover, tram lines 9 and 10 can be connected, and a new tram stop can be placed near Bolligenstrasse. A new line between Guisanplatz and Ostring could further strengthen the “urban repair” project involving the N6 motorway cover.