Traffic reform in Styria: Holzer relies on security and innovation

Traffic reform in Styria: Holzer relies on security and innovation

The new State Councilor Claudia Holzer, responsible for traffic, state building, rural road construction and technology in Styria, has clearly spoken out against a planned local transport levy. According to Holzer, such a measure in the current financial situation would be a significant burden for citizens and the economy. Around 325 million euros are available for traffic and infrastructure in her department, but the country's financial situation is described as tense, such as the Kleine Zeitung reported. The necessary preservation of the approximately 5,000 kilometer -comprehensive state road network is highlighted as a central task, since it should not only contribute to traffic safety, but also to improve the mobility of the citizens.

Holzer, who has been in office since December 18, 2024 and previously worked as an authorized representative at the Graz-Köflacher Bahn (GKB), plans to improve traffic behavior in Styria. "I am committed to cycling, but also about the concerns of economic operators," she said. The focus is particularly on the development of Park & Ride systems and the improvement of the rail connections. However, the planned renovation and expansion of Heinrichstrasse in Graz could be at risk from the withdrawal of the road rights notice, which led to tensions with the Graz city government. With regard to the current projects, she emphasized that there is a subsequent stop at Graz Airport for the Koralbahn and the increase in passenger numbers on public transport on her agenda.

Holzer's goal: security and efficiency in traffic

traffic safety, a central concern of Holzer, is supported by existing programs. The former lawyer and political expert who studied at the University of Graz and has extensive experience in the public sector is also committed to improving the S-Bahn connections between Graz and Bruck. "We have to encourage people to use the fast rail connections," said Holzer. A positive development in the regional transport infrastructure could also promote the economy of the Graz location, which in turn would benefit the citizens, as the Wikipedia page reveals.