Preliminary work is expected to start in the next few weeks with a view to completing the project in 2020.

The project entails construction of the double-track Polcevera tunnel and completing two single-track tunnels between Genoa Piazza Principe and Brignole stations.

This will provide four tracks between Genoa Voltri and Genoa Sampierdarena and six tracks between Piazza Principe and Brignole, and allow commuter trains to be separated from long-distance services. RFI says this will not only increase capacity in Genoa but also improve reliability and punctuality.