Soil improvement for Couvet-Môtiers roadway renovation

In collaboration with the experts from Bauer Spezialtiefbau Schweiz, the Neuchâtel transport company has completed a challenging track renovation project on the railroad line between Couvet and Môtiers. The unstable position of the overhead line masts and displaced tracks due to the soft ground, consisting of layers of peat up to 3 m thick, required an innovative solution. The load-bearing capacity of the soil was improved with vibrating stone columns (RSV) and precisely installed Kelly piles – a sustainable method that protects the environment in the nature reserve. Thanks to intensive testing and Bauer's expertise, all the work was completed on schedule in October 2024 despite the challenges.