Tangential Tram Line 17, Zurich

The new tram tangent complements the access to the development areas in the southern part of the city with a new connection to the west and enables a direct connection to Hardbrücke station. The study demonstrates the technical, operational, structural, and urban feasibility of the tram tangent as well as its appropriateness.

A route via Seebahnstrasse–Birmensdorferstrasse–Steinstrasse–Üetlibergstrasse is recommended. On the one hand, the tram route can be well integrated into these main street spaces from an urban design perspective; on the other hand, it generates synergies of use and connects neighborhood centers and development areas. Moreover, dense residential neighborhoods can be served without burdening their intact inner structures and residential streets.

The tram route through Seebahnstrasse enables a connection to Wiedikon station. Due to the high sensitivity of the location, this area was analyzed separately and visions were developed for dealing with the railway cutting and the adjacent buildings. The focus is on adapting the slope of the railway cutting to make the tram line feasible. The resulting change in the character of the streetscape brought about by the tram will clearly upgrade Seebahnstrasse into an attractive urban boulevard.