Maastricht - The cross-border high-speed tram link between Hasselt (BE) and Maastricht (NL) offers a unique opportunity to connect these two Limburg capitals in a sustainable way. Recreational visitors, students and commuters can use this fast, comfortable connection to travel easily between the two university cities.
| Location | Maastricht Google Maps |
| Assignment | Infrastructure, Tram line |
| Size | 3.8 km track in Maastricht |
| Design | 2015 - 2019 |
| Construction | 2018-present |
| Client | Province of Limburg |
| Team | Luc Veeger, Hans Smolenaers, Hanna Prinssen |
We were responsible for the integration of the new TMH (Tram Maastricht Hasselt) track on the Dutch side of the border. The tram passes historic locations like the Lage Fronten Park, the historic Boschstraat (with the nearby Sphinx quarter, Muziekgieterij music venue etc.) and the Bassin waterfront, ending at Mosae Forum. The new public space forms a high-quality urban environment in the historic city of Maastricht.
The design is focused on the experience of passengers in the tram and also takes account of the view of the tram line (with overhead cables) for local residents. The four stops fit the local context of the Sphinx quarter. The stop at the Lage Fronten Park and the Noorderbrug will have a green character, with tram rails in the grass. On the Boschstraat, features of a former city wall are reflected in the overhead lighting. At the Mosae Forum stop, the Maas river and its quayside set the tone, with characteristic paving materials.
In the Sphinx quarter, it is the old industrial heritage of the former Sphinx factory, repurposed to create a dynamic new district full of culture, cafés and restaurants, commerce and shops. Mosae Forum is the real central stop. This location is within walking distance of the Markt square and is the perfect place to hop on or off for anyone visiting Maastricht’s city center.
