Construction of the second platform began in January 2024 and is set to continue without interruption over the next two months. Once completed, the project will allow Howald station to accommodate increased passenger traffic.
The Howald district has seen significant growth in recent years – a trend that shows no sign of slowing. The expansion of the train station is therefore a timely and appropriate development. At present, the catenary wires, signalling infrastructure and tracks have been dismantled. Along a 900-metre stretch, 2.7 kilometres of track will be replaced. Developers are currently working on platform construction and surfacing. According to CFL project engineer David Da Silva Pereira, the new platform will mirror the first, though with certain modifications.
The project engineer added:
“There will be a Y-shaped staircase with a large lift and stairs leading to the walkway which connects Cactus Howald with the train station. The escalator is expected later, as we need to wait until the National Roads Administration has finished their bridge. Anything else a passenger might need will be provided on the platform.”
However, the construction works will not be completed by mid-September. While the second platform will open to the public, the first will close for renovation. It is expected to return to service in March 2026 – though not yet for trains running on the new line between Luxembourg City and Bettembourg, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
Marc Hoffmann, head of infrastructure at CFL, explains the aim behind the project:
“The goal is to have eight trains travelling to and from France in the timespan of an hour. During the expansion of the Howald platform, and anywhere else, the platforms were extended so we can drive larger trains. That means we will not only have more trains, but longer ones. Afterwards, we will be able to transport twice as many people we do now.”
The new trains will be 250 metres long and able to carry up to 1,000 passengers each – amounting to 8,000 seats per hour in both directions. The total cost of the Howald station expansion stands at €100 million.
