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Flood protection for the Aare neighbourhoods
During periods of high water levels, the River Aare repeatedly overflows its banks, causing significant damage. Structural measures are now being implemented to provide improved flood protection along a stretch of around 6 km of riverbank. At the same time, this popular local recreation area is being ecologically enhanced. Aline Wicki and Isabel Blatter, geographers based in Bern, are contributing to one of the city’s most significant urban development projects – in a place they know very well and personally enjoy using. TBF is supporting the project in the roles of client support and overall site management.
Bern and the Aare in harmony
Along the River Aare, one of Bern’s largest urban construction projects is taking shape: a comprehensive flood protection scheme between the Tierpark and Engehalde areas. At the latest since the floods of 1999 and 2005, it has been clear that the existing protective measures are no longer sufficient. In future, embankments, walls and landscape adaptations will protect the densely populated neighbourhoods, complemented by new drainage pipelines and pumping stations. As part of these works, utility lines will also be refurbished. Construction will be carried out in stages over a period of around eight years.
Aline and Isabel, what does it mean to you to work on a project that is so important for Bern?
Aline: I find it exciting to be involved in such a large-scale project in a place that is familiar to me. Since joining the project in 2024, I have come to see just how complex this undertaking is. Especially now, during the construction phase, a pragmatic approach is essential. The Aare is always a busy place and that is precisely where construction has to take place. This is where very different needs and expectations come together and sometimes clash.
Isabel: I live in Bern and enjoy jogging and swimming in the Aare myself. Especially in summer, I spend a lot of time there. A great many people are affected by this project – myself included. Being directly involved gives me a real understanding of what lies behind it: the extensive planning effort, the many trade-offs, and how hard everyone tries to keep disruptions manageable. That perspective is very valuable. On top of that, I can contribute to something that will protect the city I live in in the long term.
When does it become particularly challenging – and what helps in those moments?
Aline: The public space is currently only available to a limited extent due to safety requirements. Along certain sections of the Aare, swimming and boating are temporarily prohibited, and some access points are closed. All of this is happening in an area that is normally heavily and diversely used. Here in Bern, we are all affected by these restrictions, which makes it easier to empathise with the people concerned. We work closely with the city to coordinate all stakeholders and affected parties. Seeking dialogue and fostering mutual understanding can often make a significant difference.
What sets this project apart from others?
Isabel: This project was initiated back in 2006. It is a generational project. Accordingly, the planning phase was extensive and highly complex. We are working right in the heart of the city and directly alongside the river. Hydraulic engineering measures, for example, can only be carried out during the winter months. In addition, the project extends along the entire length of the Aare river corridor.
Parts of the project perimeter lie within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and protective measures must be carefully integrated into the historic cityscape. This is only possible through close collaboration with a wide range of specialist disciplines. And, of course, the pressure of use is immense. All of this makes the planning and implementation particularly demanding, but that is precisely what fascinates me about the project.
