Wismar invests in better local transport: 550,000 euros grant approved!

Wismar invests in better local transport: 550,000 euros grant approved!

In Wismar, the popular coastal town in northern Germany, something is happening in local transport. A new gas bus was introduced at the central bus station (ZOB), which is now part of a comprehensive plan to ensure that public transport is not only better, but also more environmentally friendly. The central bus station plays a central role in Wismar's city traffic, as all lines run from here to the surrounding communities.

Since June 2023, a new bus route plan has ensured that the communities of Zierow, Barnekow, Lübow and Hornstorf are now directly connected to the network. Mayor Thomas Beyer (SPD) proudly reports that these changes have been well received. The Wismar local bus not only attracts with new connections, but also with late and night trips, which offer residents and visitors even more flexibility.

Costs and subsidies in focus

However, the positive development also brings with it a challenge: rising costs in local public transport are putting a strain on the district. This means that the district is only legally obliged to cover the costs within the scope of its possibilities. In order to overcome these financial hurdles, the Wismar citizens have decided to voluntarily cover 50% of the costs. The city is planning a grant of 550,000 euros to the district of Northwest Mecklenburg for the coming year, with increasing subsidies to be increased to up to 650,000 euros in 2029.

In addition, the district council commissioned the district administrator to raise the issue of rising local transport costs with the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In the long term, this initiative could help reduce financial burdens and maintain the quality of public transport.

Mobility for everyone

Of course, improving accessibility is also at the center of the discussion. This means that people with sensory disabilities can also benefit from innovative solutions. An app called MoviReading provides in-theater audio description and subtitles, making the experience more accessible for everyone. But there is also progress in the cultural sector, as cinema attendance in the region shows: subscriptions and discounted tickets make films easier to finance for many people.

In summary, it can be said that in Wismar we are not only working on the connections, but also on the future financing of local transport. The city is doing good business by being proactive about improvements and covering costs. The positive feedback from citizens and the increasing transport numbers prove that Wismar is on the right path. A new gas bus is just the beginning of a promising development.

For further information about developments in Wismar local transport you can read the articles on NDR read up and find out more about the cultural initiatives Incinema experience.