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Smart Tunnelling Solutions for Every Ground Condition

Construction workers wearing orange safety uniforms walk beside train tracks in a large, well-lit tunnel under construction.
Two construction workers wearing orange safety gear and helmets stand inside a modern underground tunnel with railway tracks.
Two individuals in orange safety outfits and white helmets stand near a construction site, discussing and gesturing.

Smart Tunnelling Solutions for Every Ground Condition

Smart Planning 

We analyse soil and groundwater conditions and take a holistic approach – ensuring maximum safety, constructability, and cost-efficiency.

Construction Methods

Whether open or closed construction, mechanical or conventional excavation – we tailor planning concepts to project-specific requirements and encountered ground conditions.

Managing Complexity

Even under challenging soil conditions or in confined urban spaces, we deliver suitable solutions. Ground improvement and ground freezing are part of our core expertise.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

From route selection and high-quality design to construction supervision, we stand by your side as a reliable partner.

Tunnel Construction – Confidence Built Underground

Every tunnel is unique. We analyse project-specific conditions and focus on constructability and quality. This results in designs that combine safety, sustainability, and cost-efficiency – even under complex ground conditions in urban environments. Whether road tunnels, rails tunnels, or infrastructure for energy and water: We develop concepts that minimise risks and ensure project success. With state-of-the-art technology and decades of experience, we guide you from the first idea to the optimal solution.

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Aerial view of Stuttgart 21 construction site with a large circular pit and surrounding buildings.
Aerial view of Stuttgart 21 construction site with a large circular pit and surrounding buildings.
Stuttgart, Germany

Stuttgart 21 – New Airport Connection

Stuttgart 21 is a major rail infrastructure project transforming the transport network of Stuttgart (Germany). CDM Smith is responsible for construction supervision, reviewing tender documents and managing plan workflows.

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Aerial view of an illuminated construction site at night, showing a large excavation area with structural supports, machinery, and surrounding roads.
Aerial view of an illuminated construction site at night, showing a large excavation area with structural supports, machinery, and surrounding roads.
Frankfurt, Germany

Extension of U5 Subway Line in Frankfurt – Connection to a New District 

For the extension of Frankfurt’s subway line U5, CDM Smith is responsible for object and structural design for the new tunnel route.

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Worker walking through a large, illuminated tunnel under construction, with curved concrete walls and equipment lining the sides.
Worker walking through a large, illuminated tunnel under construction, with curved concrete walls and equipment lining the sides.
Berlin, Germany

Subway Construction U5 Berlin

The “Gap Closure U5” project connects the subway line between Alexanderplatz and the Brandenburg Gate. CDM Smith supported the construction of the 2.2 km tunnel from the very beginning.

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More Context. More Knowledge.

Our Insights provide in‑depth perspectives on our key topics and projects.
Discover Our Knowledge Hub
3D model of a factory with digital lines representing BIM technology.
Insight

Intelligent Project Delivery Through BIM Technologies

CDM Smith uses BIM to create digital models that make construction projects more efficient and transparent—from planning through to execution.

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A passenger train passing through an urban setting with skyscrapers in the background during sunset.
Insight

Ground Freezing for the Suburban Rail Loop in Melbourne 

In this interview, Simon Klösges explains how ground freezing was successfully applied to a Melbourne infrastructure project and its sustainable benefits.

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Related Practices

Interested in learning more about our capabilities? Explore our services and related practice areas.

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Two construction workers wearing orange safety gear and helmets stand inside a modern underground tunnel with railway tracks.

Construction Supervision

We oversee your construction site to ensure smooth, contract-compliant, and on-schedule execution.
Upward view from inside a tunnel with formwork and scaffolding framing an open section against a blue sky.

Geotechnics

From ground investigation to execution: Our geotechnical experts support you in every project phase with in-depth know-how and innovative methods.
Aerial view of a highway interchange with multiple curved roads and a large bridge, surrounded by greenery.

Infrastructure

Forward-looking infrastructure starts with planning expertise: We assess feasibility, evaluate risks, and develop the best solutions for your project.
Aerial view of a large urban construction site with a deep excavation pit, cranes, machinery, and tunnel infrastructure, surrounded by multi‑story office buildings and roads.

Special Foundation Engineering

Every construction project needs a solid foundation – we deliver special foundation and geotechnical engineering solutions for stability, safety and long-term performance.
Row of high‑voltage transmission towers carrying power lines against a colorful sunset sky.

Energy Infrastructure

From power lines to battery storage systems – we plan, coordinate and deliver your energy infrastructure projects efficiently, reliably and future-ready.
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