Issues with Budget for Vienna Subway Expansion: Renegotiations Needed
Three years ago, a financial package of 5.7 billion euros was agreed upon for the construction of the U-Bahn lines U2 and U5 between the city of Vienna and the federal government. However, these conditions could prove increasingly difficult, as reported by ORF Vienna.
Vienna FPÖ fears U2/U5 project as a billion-dollar grave
The Vienna FPÖ, led by its chief Dominik Nepp, recently expressed serious concerns that the costs are expected to double. Nepp emphasized in a press conference that this development would burden the city of Vienna, as a cost-sharing between the federal government and the state is no longer realistic. This could significantly increase the city's financial obligations.
Budget renegotiations with the federal government on the table
Mobility Councillor Ulli Sima from the SPÖ rejected these cost estimates in a statement on the sidelines of a press event. However, she mentioned that the additional costs arising from price increases in the energy and construction sectors, as well as flood damage last year, are not covered in the existing capped financing agreement with the federal government. She explained that if cost frameworks are exceeded, new negotiations must be initiated and emphasized that the city of Vienna is currently at this point.
Sima stated that the need for renegotiations has existed for some time. However, during the black-green government, there was no willingness to initiate these talks. With the new change in government, there is hope for an open ear to the concerns of the city of Vienna.
Sima optimistic about the timeline
Regarding adherence to the timeline, Sima stated that she cannot guarantee it, but is optimistic. Currently, the plan is to complete the first construction phase by 2030 and the second section by 2035. She did not want to make further statements about possible delays that could result from cost-saving measures.
(Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.