Jacobs and Rambøll Awarded Contract for Marselis Tunnel in Aarhus
The Danish Road Directorate has appointed Jacobs, a US-based engineering firm, and Denmark’s Rambøll. They will oversee the construction of the Marselis Tunnel, which is designed to divert cargo trucks away from Marselis Boulevard, one of the busiest streets in Aarhus. The contract was announced following parliamentary approval of the project in June 2025.
Project Details
The Marselis Tunnel will stretch approximately 2 kilometres. It allows trucks to bypass Marselis Boulevard and access the E45 Østjyske Motorway directly underground. The project comes in response to growing cargo volumes at Aarhus Port, which currently handles 70% of Denmark’s container traffic.
Timeline and Implementation
Jacobs and Rambøll will manage construction and design the tunnel’s mechanical and electrical systems. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, while planning and detailed design are still underway.
Cargo Volume and Traffic
In July 2025, Aarhus Port recorded a 45% increase in container throughput, handling 86,835 twenty-foot equivalent units. This was an increase compared to 59,726 units in June. This surge is attributed to new container routes and the effects of geopolitical shifts on trade.
Anticipated Challenges
Michael Schmidt Vosgerau, senior project manager at the Road Directorate, described building the tunnel along one of Aarhus’ busiest access roads as a complex task. He emphasised that international experience will be essential. Denmark has not undertaken a similar project before.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The article presents the Marselis Tunnel project in Aarhus as an engineered solution. It aims to divert cargo traffic from the congested Marselis Boulevard. The images highlight preliminary plans and 3D designs, showcasing clear use of concrete and steel, with logical internal and external routing. Yet, while the design excels functionally and technically, its impact on the surrounding environment and urban integration remains underexplored. This raises questions about contextual relevance. Nevertheless, the project provides an opportunity to redefine urban traffic flow. It serves as a valuable case study for future infrastructure strategies in metropolitan areas.
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