Two-month ban: Stephansplatz elevator leads to protests!

Two-month ban: Stephansplatz elevator leads to protests!

The Wiener Linien is once again under criticism because the only elevator at the Stephansplatz subway station will be expanded from January 20th to March 17th. This month-long closure leaves the central transport hub inaccessible to people with reduced mobility, parents with strollers and older people. According to reports from Today The need for a second elevator at Stephansplatz had long been known, but was dismissed by the Wiener Linien as unfeasible. Despite the support of the district council and representatives for the disabled, the planned installation of a second elevator remains an unfulfilled wish.

Criticism and lack of understanding

The Wiener Linien argue that numerous feasibility studies rule out the implementation of a second elevator due to high costs and the potential threat to the UNESCO World Heritage status of Vienna's city center. “All sensible variants would fail due to immense costs,” said Wiener Linien, as well crown reported. Meanwhile, Stephansplatz becomes a restricted zone for people who rely on accessibility, which triggers additional unrest among the population.

In addition, the U4 station Hütteldorf also faces similar challenges. From May 26th to September 1st, 2025, the only existing elevator will be modernized, which will also severely limit accessibility. Wiener Linien informs that only S-Bahn, buses and trams are available during this time, which further limits mobility in the city.