Wiener Linien starts construction work: U3 station Gasometer becomes barrier-free!

Wiener Linien starts construction work: U3 station Gasometer becomes barrier-free!

Wiener Linien is continuing its modernization projects to improve accessibility in public transport. The focus is on the U3 station Gasometer, where extensive construction work will begin in April 2025. This includes the construction of two new barrier-free staircases as well as equipping both platforms with additional stairs and elevators. These measures are part of a larger plan to improve connectivity for the Erdberger Mais urban area and are expected to be implemented by 2027, when access will also be enabled via Medwedweg and Nussbaumallee. [vienna.at] reports that these steps will help strengthen public connectivity in a growing urban environment.

Investing in modern public infrastructure is necessary not only to meet the demands of a growing city, but also to meet the needs of all citizens. Particular attention is paid to accessibility. According to Wiener Linien, the continuous improvement of the accessibility of vehicles, stations and guidance systems is crucial for the social participation of people who rely on permanent mobility aids.

Accessibility Award

In autumn 2024, Vienna was awarded the EU's Access City Award for its progress in accessibility. This recognition underlines Wiener Linien's commitment to increasing accessibility in public transport. Such an award also provides impetus for further developments in the area of ​​accessibility, which is considered a quality feature in public transport. This is particularly true for people with disabilities and mobility restrictions, for whom access to public transport is essential. [wienerlinien.at]

The legal framework for accessibility was strengthened by the “Act on Equality for Disabled People (BGG)”, which came into force in 2002. This law has brought important changes to public transport and other modes of transport designed to promote greater accessibility. In the context of accessibility, which is also being sought in Vienna, the Passenger Transport Act aims to guarantee complete accessibility in public transport by January 1, 2022. In addition, local transport plans in the future must take into account the needs of people with mobility or sensory impairments. [bmdv.bund.de]

With the expansion of the U3 Gasometer station, Vienna is showing that progressive and inclusive public transport is necessary. The ongoing measures and successes to date are a step in the right direction to improve mobility opportunities for all population groups.