ETH Zurich Transport Report Sparks Controversy Over Motorway Expansions vs. Sustainable Mobility
The ETH Zurich Transport Infrastructure Report, commissioned by Federal Councillor Albert Rösti, has sparked controversy. Critics, including the Green Party, environmental organizations, and several political parties, argue that it favours motorway expansions over sustainable mobility solutions. Umverkehr has even threatened a referendum if the policy continues.
The Social Democratic Party (SP) has called for prioritizing rail infrastructure and agglomeration projects, while the Greens accuse Rösti of reviving rejected motorway expansions worth nine billion francs. Pro Velo Switzerland criticizes the lack of consideration for cycling in the federal council's transport plans until 2045.
The public transport interest group demands an increase in the rail infrastructure fund to 24 billion francs. The Swiss Association for Transport and Environment (VCS) demands financial and planning priority for rail, bus, cycling, and pedestrian traffic projects. The Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) generally evaluates the report positively, praising its recommendation for stricter planning and approval processes.
Meanwhile, Umverkehr threatens a referendum if politics do not stop the revival of rejected motorway expansions. The conferences of the cantonal directors of transport, building, planning, and environment welcome the holistic view of mobility in the report and call for secure and adequate financing of infrastructure projects.
The ETH Zurich Transport Infrastructure Report faces criticism from various groups who argue it prioritizes motorway expansions over sustainable mobility solutions. With threats of referendums and demands for increased funding for rail and cycling projects, the future of Swiss transport infrastructure remains a contentious issue.
