The Norwegian government has revealed plans to increase spending on the country’s railway network to record levels next year as part of the 2015 state budget, which was announced on October 8.
The 2015 budget lays the foundation for achieving the Government’s long-term goal of making Norway a low emission society.
Thus, Norway sets out increased investment in future transportation systems. The focus on sustainable transport will be heightened. The Government proposes to increase the budget for the Norwegian Rail Administration by about nine percent from NOK 16.2 to 17.7 billion (EUR 2,14 bn). This includes NOK 1.2 billion (EUR 145 mln) extra for the new double track between Oslo and Ski.
In addition, the Government proposes an increase of NOK 3.2 billion (EUR 388 mln) in the funding for the purchase of railway passenger services.
Key projects for 2015 will include the completion of track-doubling on a 17km section of the Oslo – Lillehammer line along Lake Mjøsa north of Minnesund and construction of Oslo’s Follo Line.
The Norwegian government also plans to improve urban accessibility. Urban environment agreements are one of the new governmental initiatives in the 2015 budget. These agreements will provide for improved public transport and accessibility in towns and cities. An allocation of NOK 70 million (EUR 8,4 mln) is proposed as a start. The Government also proposes a special grant of NOK 25 million (EUR 3 mln) for the Fornebu railway and NOK 10 million (EUR 1,2 mln) for a reward system for pedestrian and cycle paths.
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