Construction Works for Repairing Retaining Structures in Zurich

This project involves the repair of approximately 100-year-old natural stone retaining walls Grüt I, Pfaffen, and Kirchenrank along the railway line 730 from Zurich Stadelhofen to Rapperswil in the municipality of Herrliberg. The retaining walls are a hybrid of gravity and facing walls. The goal is to ensure the structural safety and usability of the structures for the next 80 years through appropriate construction measures. Due to the deteriorated condition—particularly defective joints, damaged stones, and crumbling mortar due to moisture—measures such as joint repair, replacement of individual stones, pinning, nailing, and renewal of fall protection are planned. The limited space between the retaining walls, tracks, and overhead lines allows for very restricted work during operation, which is why a large part of the work must be carried out at night during track closures. Due to the location in a densely populated area, night work will be minimized. Site logistics will primarily be conducted via rail, with installation and logistics areas in close proximity to the structures. The project places high demands on planning, construction processes, and safety precautions during ongoing railway operations.