METRO BILBAO
Although the original idea of a metropolitan transport network dates back to 1920, the present underground railway system for Greater Bilbao finally took shape in 1985, with work commencing in 1988. By November 1995, Metro Bilbao had begun to truly roll. The Metro was planned from start to end to be a world-class, innovative and unique service. By combining symbolism and functionality, British architect Norman FOSTER brought into existence an exquisite, highly original, simple and efficient project. It is indeed the most appreciated project realized by the residents of Bilbao. The final route of the Metro is shaped like the letter ‘Y’. The initial common track runs for 10.5 km from Basauri to San Inazio, from East to West. From here, the line divides into two: line 1 runs along the same track as the old Euskotren, (Basque Railways) line, which served the towns on the Left bank of the river to the end of the line in Plentzia. Line 2, however, runs through the main towns on the Right bank, as far as the sea port of Santurtzi, recently extended from Portugalete. Also under construction is Line 3 which will join Districts 2 and 3 with the centre of the city and with Lines 1 and 2 currently in service. Casco Viejo (Old Bilbao) is intended to be the transfer and intermodal station with a specially designed building for the purpose by Mr Norman FOSTER.
Of all the underground stations in the network, San Inazio stands out as a small underground city where the two lines meet, where one appreciates a feeling of freedom due to its spaciousness and lighting. Certainly, the pride felt in this vital means of transport is even greater when we consider that the train carriages were built using cutting-edge technology by the Basque company CAF. All the carriages have motors with extremely
efficient technology, especially as regards power, acceleration and braking. Each traction unit is autonomous, capable of reaching a maximum speed at 80 km/hr. Each train unit is composed of four carriages coupled together without doors or separation of any kind, creating a single unified space with greater mobility for passengers. The train's maximum capacity, while maintaining comfort, is four persons per square metre, which translates into 523 per carriage, 379 standing and 144 seated.
This is the first construction of the new Bilbao, hidden underground but coming to the surface to join the rest of the city in the form of unique curved glassy structures. These Metro entrances are known as fosteritos by the people of Bilbao in honour of architect Norman FOSTER. In 1998, the Metro was awarded the Brunel Prize, the most prestigious international award for railway architecture for Sarriko station. Moreover, this magnificent construction, which has revolutionised transport in Bilbao, has also been awarded the Prize for the cleanest Metro service in Europe.