BKV.hu

Faster track and quieter trams – a section of the Grand Boulevard tram line is being renovated

2025-05-21 12:27:00

With the renovation of the section between Tátra street and Jászai Mari square, BKV continues the modernization of the Grand Boulevard tram line. With the reconstruction of the track and the application of a modern noise and vibration-reducing technology, the track noise in the trams’ journey and the environmental impact can be abated. The works are expected to last until the beginning of August.

On 21 June, at the beginning of the summer school break, comprehensive track renovation works will begin on a section of the Grand Boulevard tram line with intense traffic, between Jászai Mari square and Tátra street. In the context of the investment, approximately 415 meters of deteriorated track will be restored. A particularly important part of the project is that a new solution with track casting method will be installed between the bypass connection at Jászai Mari square and Tátra street. This is a modern noise and vibration dampening technology, the essence of which is that the rails are covered with a special, elastic material, which reduces the vibration and noise generated by the trams. This solution not only improves the quality of life of the residents in the area, but also protects the structure and increases the service life of the track. The noise and vibration dampening will also make the tram cabin quieter and more comfortable. After the renovation, the speed limit previously introduced due to the condition of the track will be lifted on the section; accordingly, the trams may run at a speed of 50 km/h again.

Tram lines No. 4 and 6 are one of the busiest and most loaded public transport routes in Budapest, with 280 thousand passengers travelling on them each day. This represents about 30 percent of the total tram traffic on a working day. On weekdays, during school hours, thirty-six 54-meter-long Combino trams operate on the Grand Boulevard, with 78 drivers on duty. Tram No. 6 also runs at night – with 7, 9 vehicles on weekdays. The section between Tátra street and the Pest-side bridgehead of Margaret Bridge was last renovated by BKV in 2009–2010; however, the condition of the track has deteriorated significantly in recent years due to the high traffic load - the latter being outstanding even in global terms -, which justified the current modernization.

The renovation necessarily involves traffic restrictions. Between 21 June and the beginning of August, replacement buses will run between Nyugati tér and Széll Kálmán tér instead of trams No. 4 and 6. Significant restrictions on road and of pedestrian traffic should also be expected in the area of ​​the Pest-side bridgehead of Margaret Bridge and Nyugati tér. BKV appreciates the patience and understanding of passengers and those travelling in the area. After the renovation works are completed, a more modern, faster and quieter tram service will await passengers on the Grand Boulevard.

 

BKV Zrt.

2025. május 21.