Paris region earmarks EUR 3.8bn for major rail works in 2026

Île-de-France Mobilités, together with RATP, Transilien SNCF Voyageurs, SNCF Réseau and SNCF Gares & Connexions, has set out an extensive investment programme for 2026, confirming that maintenance and modernisation of rail infrastructure remains a top priority for the Paris region. Supported by the Île-de-France Region and the French State, the measures aim to strengthen reliability, safety and passenger comfort across one of Europe’s busiest transport networks.

For 2026, nearly EUR 3.8 billion has been budgeted for upgrades, renewals and strategic developments across the Île-de-France Mobilités network. This forms part of a wider long-term plan to renew rolling stock, carry out large-scale works on existing RER and metro lines, and integrate future Grand Paris Express connections (Lines 15, 16, 17 and 18).

The investment will support several flagship projects that will directly impact the daily travel experience for millions of passengers. Key priorities include:

  • Introduction of the new MF19 metro trains, which will be deployed on eight metro lines.
  • Continued regeneration and modernisation of RER C infrastructure to improve punctuality and resilience.
  • Preparatory works for the arrival of the MI 20 trains on the RER B.
  • Ongoing complete renewal of RER D infrastructure, including the arrival of the RER NG, upgrades to maintenance centres and other modernisation projects.

Major works planned for summer 2026

The 2026 programme also includes several large-scale construction and renewal projects, many of which will require significant service interruptions during the summer. Full details will be presented at the upcoming spring press briefing, but early highlights include:

  • Renovation of Nation station on the RER A, one of the network’s busiest interchange hubs.
  • Switch renewal works on segments of the RER B and RER D, improving network reliability and operational safety.
  • Catenary replacement and flood-protection works on the RER C, an especially vulnerable line during periods of heavy rain or rising water levels.

These works are seen as essential to maintaining long-term operational performance on ageing sections of the network while preparing for the increased pressures expected once Grand Paris Express interchange stations begin operation.

Maintaining performance on Europe’s busiest regional network

Île-de-France Mobilités and its partners underline that sustained investment is crucial for ensuring the reliability of the Paris region’s extensive rail system. With passenger numbers steadily rising and several major lines due to receive new rolling stock, maintaining and modernising the underlying infrastructure is considered indispensable.

Supporting documents outlining the first-half works and major summer projects have been released as part of the announcement.


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