The Austrian Federal Ministry of Mobility, the State of Upper Austria, ÖBB, and Oberösterreichische Verkehrsholding have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of the Upper Austria rail network.

“With this agreement, we are securing the future of regional public transport in Upper Austria and, at the same time, laying the foundation for its targeted development. A reliable and predictable service for the region’s residents is essential,” said Mobility Minister Peter Hanke.

A central element of the agreement is the maintenance and development of existing regional lines. The Almtalbahn and Hausruckbahn lines will remain part of the ÖBB system and will benefit from investments based on previously established financing mechanisms linked to service contracts through 2033. The goal is to improve service quality for passengers based on long-term funding.

Specifically, the electrification of the Wels–Sattledt section of the Almtalbahn line has been reconfirmed, as well as the modernization of the bridge over the Traun River in the Wels/Thalheim area. An agreement has also been reached to keep the Hausruckbahn line in operation on both sections, with the possibility of temporarily introducing bus service in the event of major technical issues.

Another key point concerns the future of the Mühlkreisbahn commuter line, for which a transfer to the state of Upper Austria or to a company within the regional transport holding is being considered. The goal is to create a solid foundation for investment and modernization of the line as part of an integrated urban-regional rail system.

“Together with federal and regional authorities, we are making targeted investments to improve services for citizens. This agreement lays the foundation for a modern, high-performance, and future-ready rail infrastructure,” stated Andreas Matthä, CEO of ÖBB.

At the same time, the development of the Regional-Stadtbahn Linz (or the Linz tram-train project) is considered a key project. Its integration into Linz Central Station and the Mühlkreisbahnhof station represents an essential step toward increasing the capacity and efficiency of the entire rail network, with partners paying particular attention to these strategic connections.

According to the plans, the tram-train project includes an urban component featuring a 10-km line running through the city of Linz, and the network will extend up to 90 km, including integrated regional lines such as the Mühlkreisbahn and the new connections.

“This agreement represents a strong commitment to the Upper Austria region and to the mobility of the future. We are making targeted investments in modern rail connections because they enhance quality of life, reduce pressure on commuters, and strengthen the regional economy—in other words, local railways are vital arteries for Upper Austria’s economy, labor market, and innovation,” emphasized Governor Thomas Stelzer.

The central objective of Upper Austria’s railway network development is to strengthen the role of rail as an essential element of an efficient, environmentally friendly, and economically competitive mobility system, thereby contributing to improved quality of life and the sustainable enhancement of Upper Austria’s economic attractiveness.

The agreement builds on previous initiatives—from the 2019 modernization package to the agreements on the Linz tram-train—with all partners reaffirming their commitment to a modern, efficient, and future-oriented rail system.