Low-Emission Regional Mobility – regional mobility solutions for the České Budějovice–Linz railway corridor

Project Overview

The LOWERMO project responds to a joint cross-border challenge: the Linz–České Budějovice railway corridor, which is a strategic component of the European transport network (TEN-T). The infrastructure is in need of modernization (single-track line, limited speed and capacity). At the same time, the affected regions on both sides of the border need to improve transport accessibility for residents, businesses, and tourism. This is because many major tourist destinations are located outside areas with good public transport service.

The project process is divided into three logically sequential phases:

1. Analysis of the current state and needs – includes an assessment of infrastructure, transport services, and strategic documents, as well as a sociological survey of residents’ mobility, an analysis of the regional freight transport market, and ongoing communication with stakeholders.

2. Proposal for service concepts and infrastructure connections – focuses on identifying regional hubs, transfer connections, designing timetables, route planning and connections, as well as determining requirements for infrastructure parameters.

3. Economic evaluation – presents a concise cost-benefit analysis that takes into account time savings, externalities, climate impacts, and the effect on regional development.

For target groups (regional and national institutions, infrastructure managers, public transport coordinators, businesses, and the public), the project will provide concrete decision-making tools and support for cross-border coordination. These outputs will increase the likelihood that future investments in railway infrastructure will lead to measurable benefits in the areas of regional mobility, accessibility of tourist destinations, and sustainable development.

Project Outputs and Results

The main output of the project will be a jointly developed strategy and action plan:

• A concept for cross-border mobility in connection with the Linz–České Budějovice high-speed rail line (1 strategy/action plan).

The project will also include pilot solutions for cross-border sustainable mobility (a total of 2 measures):

• a proposal for cross-border fares in regional rail transport and connecting modes,

• a proposal for a new cross-border concept for bus, on-demand, and shared transport.

Expected project results

• The prepared mobility concept will be usable for subsequent planning steps by infrastructure managers (SŽ, ÖBB) as well as for regional transport and development strategies (Upper Austria, South Bohemian Region).

• Strengthening and formalizing cross-border institutional cooperation: involving relevant organizations in cooperation during the project and creating a foundation for continued cooperation even after the project’s completion.

• Pilot solutions will be submitted to relevant institutions for adoption or further development, including follow-up steps such as detailed planning or verification of financing options.

Lead Project Partner

Another project partner

Research Team