Reykjavik's new public transport system

Urban Development & Mobility

Borgarlínan - BRT system
Reykjavik, Iceland

Gottlieb Paludan Architects is responsible for the architecture and landscape of Borgarlínan - a major public transport project to transform traffic in Iceland's capital in a green direction.

The Borgarlínan project is a Bus Rapid Transit system where buses run on a separate route, with their own stops and identity. The BRT system combines the high capacity and speed of the tram with the flexibility and lower construction costs of the bus. It is a solution that offers good operational flexibility, good opportunities for urban integration and a good investment economy.

Client
Vegargerdin / Betri Samgongur
Status
Project
Size
13 km
Year
2025
Collaborators
Artelia, MOE, HNIT, YRKI
Areas of Expertise

BRT system as a sustainable alternative to car traffic in Reykjavik

The BRT system will provide an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to the car and can also help pave the way for more pedestrian and bicycle traffic in Reykjavik. The possibility of running on sustainable fuels is being explored and Borgarlínan is an important element in Iceland's goal of carbon-neutral public transport to help the country meet the Paris Agreement. There is strong focus on designing a traffic system with a clear local identity that contributes positively to green development and the creation of well-functioning urban spaces and new traffic patterns in the metropolitan area.

Billedetekst mangler

Gottlieb Paludan Architects won the project as part of an international team, led by French Artelia and with Danish MOE, Icelandic HNIT and YRKI on the team.

1/3

Specialist Knowledge

Our employees master a wide range of specialised knowledge that is applied across different projects and sectors.

See our Specialist Knowledge

Everyone should be able to move through our shared public spaces and buildings in a safe and dignified way. In complex environments such as stations, terminals, and other public transport hubs, universal design is not just a feature – it’s a fundamental design principle that ensures equal access and high functionality for all, regardless of physical or cognitive ability.

Udforsk

Our cities and landscapes must accommodate a wide range of functions, interests, and concerns – from urban development and infrastructure to nature conservation and climate adaptation. This places high demands on the prioritization, planning, and siting of new developments and structures. Urban and landscape analyses provide a comprehensive overview of physical, regulatory, and contextual conditions and form a critical basis for decision-making in the early project stages.

Udforsk

Urban Development & Mobility

Cities are in constant transformation. We develop solutions that promote connectivity, mobility and quality of life – creating value across urban spaces, infrastructure and local communities.
Read more

Do you want to learn more about Borgarlínan - BRT system?

Sara Wille-Garvin

Head of Urban Development & Mobility, DGNB ConsultantUrban Planner, Architect MAA