Swedish Transport Administration awards high-speed consultancy contract

Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration, has announced that it has awarded a framework contract for strategic consultancy services for the new high-speed rail lines planned between Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö in Sweden. American firm, Jacobs, will provide technical advice and services across the planning, system, design and delivery of the three ongoing projects.

Trafikverket is planning to develop new main lines between Stockholm–Malmö and Stockholm–Gothenburg – starting with the East Link for Järna–Linköping (approximately 150km), Göteborg–Borås (approximately 60km) and Hässleholm–Lund (approximately 70km).

As well as improving connectivity between the major cities, the new high-speed railway lines are expected to increase capacity and resiliency in the railway system, create more sustainable travel and freight transport and, promote regional development and greater access to international markets.

Peter Uneklint, Trafikverket’s Programme Director, said: “Today, our main lines are overcrowded, and greater capacity will add to our sustainable transportation solutions. Expanding the railway network will bring Sweden closer together and create new opportunities for people and businesses. We are looking forward to applying Jacobs’ global experience in high-speed rail to support us in finding the right solutions for Sweden.”

The initial projects will potentially form part of a 660km high-speed rail network, estimated to cost $23.8 billion, which will connect the southern parts of Sweden to create additional capacity and reduce inter-city journey times with fast and sustainable transport. 

Jacobs’ People and Places Solutions Senior Vice President and General Manager of Operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa, Donald Morrison, said: “Jacobs has significant global experience supporting local authorities and regions in the planning and delivery of their large-scale high-speed rail initiatives. Sweden’s vision for a new generation railway is an exciting opportunity to provide cleaner, faster transport capacity and connectivity in the regions, and stimulate economic development.”