Introduction: Future Rail, Target Network 2025+ for Austria

Target Network 2025+ is a strategic plan for the future development of the rail infrastructure. Strategy is part of the “Overall Transport Scheme” development plan in Austria. Its main objective is an efficient infrastructure as a basis for an increased number of public and freight trains and improved synchronized scheduling.

Objectives and strategies for a comprehensive transport policy are formulated in the Overall Transport Scheme. The concept with specific implementations measures for rail infrastructure is described in the Target Network 2025+. The strategy focuses on modern and efficient infrastructure with environmentally friendly measures for the next 100 years.

The railway projects are expected to receive investment injections worth more than 17 billion EUR. Most of the investments aim to expand the capacity on the rail for both passenger and freight trains. This will be achieved by building new railway routes and increasing the efficiency of already existing railways. Modernization and digitalization of existing scheduling systems are expected to ensure synchronized fluent traffic without additional delays. With more possibilities and comfort, the program is expected to increase the number of people using public transport.

Passengers benefit from environmentally friendly, affordable mobility

• 30 percent more trains and train kilometers
• A wider range of rail connections in express traffic along the major axes between cities
• Better, more stable range of services for commuters around the conurbations
• More freight traffic shifted by rail
• Shorter journey times, higher speeds, and more comfort due to routes with modern equipment
• Well-linked connections without long waiting times.
• New or modernized railway stations throughout Austria
• "Design for all" - barrier-free mobility for all passenger groups: By 2027 90% of passengers should be able to use barrier-free railway stations.

The whole country benefits

• Additional employment and value creation during implementation and thereafter
• Safer and more environmentally friendly traffic
• Efficient use of public resources