Zürich’s Limmattalbahn light rail project has received approval from the Swiss federal government.
The new 13.4 kilometre line will serve the city suburbs of Alstetten, Dietikon and Spreitenbach from 2019, according to project leaders.
The CHF 715 million light rail system will be jointly funded by the cantons of Zürich and Aargau and will feature bi-directional trams with a capacity between 200 and 260 passengers.
Construction is set to begin in 2017 – subject to planning approvals.
The Limmat Valley has been described as one of the fastest growing regions in Greater Zürich. The new public transport system is seen as essential to coping with the projected 17 per cent boost to the local population.
