Brenner Base Tunnel: Huge interest in the BBT Open Tunnel Day and the Southern Access Route (RFI)

Once again this year, thousands of people took the opportunity to experience the Brenner Base Tunnel (BBT) infrastructure project and the Southern Access Route up close and get a glimpse beneath the surface. They had a chance to visit areas that are normally accessible only to workers and professionals. The excitement was particularly evident among the youngest visitors, who were delighted by the varied family programme featuring games and fun activities.

The event locations included the former Isarco River Underpass construction lot near Fortezza, with its southern portal, as well as the completed tunnel sections on site. A particular highlight was the opportunity to walk freely along an approximately 300-metre-long, flat stretch of the railway tunnels. BBT information stands and experts were available on site to answer questions and provide insights into the technical features of this major infrastructure project.

First-ever insights into the Southern Access Route
This year also saw the opening of the “Forch” construction site operated by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI). For the first time, visitors were given an insight into an important section of the Southern Access Route to the Brenner Base Tunnel.
Experts from RFI and FS Engineering provided information on the ongoing works, the technical challenges involved and the importance of the Southern Access Route for the future rail connection along the Brenner Corridor. 

Experiencing the tunnel from a different perspective
In addition to the construction site areas, visitors enjoyed a varied programme of activities. An immersive video experience conveyed the scale of the tunnel and took the audience on a journey into the underground world. Those with a particular interest in the project also had the opportunity to take part in a guided tour of the Mules construction site.
There was also plenty on offer especially for children: areas focusing on tunnels and railways invited them to play and explore.
At the festival tent, the volunteer fire brigade provided refreshments, ensuring visitors had plenty of energy between the various programme activities. Safety on site was also ensured thanks to the presence of emergency response services.  

First-hand information in high demand
The Open Tunnel Day provided an impressive insight into the many facets involved in the construction of the Brenner Base Tunnel and its Southern Access Route. At the same time, the event provided an opportunity for direct dialogue between the local community, experts and the organisations involved in the construction project.  
With the opening of the RFI “Forch” construction site, this year’s event extended the focus beyond the BBT itself for the first time. This gave visitors the opportunity not only to explore a section of the project that is already almost complete, but also to gain an impression of how the Southern Access Route is gradually taking shape south of Fortezza.
Ultimately, visitors were impressed by the capabilities of this infrastructure, which in the future will sustainably transform transit and passenger travel between Italy and Austria.