B 72 between Weiz and Birkfeld: Modernization for more safety

B 72 between Weiz and Birkfeld: Modernization for more safety

The B 72, also known as Weizer Straße, is facing significant modernization, especially the section in Rosegg, which is considered a bottleneck. A fundamental decision is expected on November 14th that could set the renovation plans in motion. The state of Styria aims to find solutions that also take the interests of the region into account.

This approximately one kilometer long section between kilometers 44,200 and 45,200 is characterized by narrow roads and inadequate visibility. The existing retaining walls are in significant need of renovation and no longer meet the safety standards required on a busy road. “A safe expansion of the B 72 is our declared goal,” emphasizes traffic officer LH-Deputy. Anton Lang and adds that all interests from the region, from communities to business and tourism, will be taken into account in the planning process.

Collaboration with communities and planning steps

The state of Styria has already carried out a variant study for the upcoming expansion work, which analyzes the space required and the connection to the parallel Feistritztalbahn. A crucial piece of land has already been acquired between the railway line and the B 72, which is essential for the possible expansion options. “The involvement of the communities is extremely important to us,” explains Lang. “All affected communities have long been calling for a continuous route and safe cycle paths.”

In the next step, the different expansion variants will be examined in detail. Attention will also be paid to the existing level crossings, as these could significantly ease the burden on traffic along the B 72. If the railway line were to be closed, it would even be conceivable that some level crossings would be eliminated entirely.

Benefits for road safety and the economy

Project manager Andreas Kammersberger emphasizes the immense need for expansion. The measures would not only ease the bottleneck in Rosegg, but also provide noticeable relief. “By relocating or closing the railway line, the current crossings on the B 72 could be reduced to a single crossing, which would significantly improve safety and traffic flow,” he explains.

Another important step in the course of the project will be the deeper examination of the subsoil, which should ensure a stable basis for planning. A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis will ultimately guide the route decision, in line with the approach used for large infrastructure projects.

For the region between Weiz and Birkfeld, this expansion could not only significantly increase traffic safety, but also strengthen economic prospects. The B 72 not only plays a local role, but is also an important link to the economically important Mürztal. The upcoming policy decision is seen by many as a long-awaited signal that the region can rely on modernized infrastructure that will meet future transport needs.

For more information on this topic, see the current reporting on www.meinkreis.at.