Basel cantons demand more planning security for transport projects

The governments of Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft have issued their responses to the Swiss Federal Council’s 2027 message regarding transport infrastructure expansion. While both cantons welcome the holistic approach to rail, road, and local traffic, they are calling for greater binding commitments and planning security from the federal government.

A primary concern is the lack of certainty regarding major projects, specifically the Basel diameter line (Durchmesserlinie), which is considered essential for the long-term development of the rail hub and the trilateral Basel S-Bahn. Additionally, the cantons oppose the Federal Council's proposal to omit the Basel Neuallschwil and Dornach Apfelsee stops.

Regarding road infrastructure, the cantons support re-including the Rhine Tunnel in the proposal, provided there are accompanying measures. However, Basel-Landschaft expressed irritation that the federal government is deviating from the previously agreed-upon approach for the N18 corridor.