Rail-Bus Core Network Weser-Ems

Initial Situation

The consortium of districts and independent cities in the Weser-Ems region, represented by the Cloppenburg district, commissioned PTV Transport Consult GmbH to develop a cross-district and cross-authority concept for a rail-bus core network. The goal is the development of a sustainable mobility system for the entire region. We were supported in this by IVE – Engineering Company for Transport and Railway Systems GmbH.

Approach

Initially, as part of a goal-setting process with the responsible authorities, key transport locations (e.g., upper and middle centers, regional rail stations, locations of tourist significance) were defined as nodes of the rail-bus core network. Based on these network nodes, the relevant corridors for desired connections were determined, and corresponding bus routes were designed. In view of potential funding eligibility under the Lower Saxony guideline for regionally significant bus lines, fundable connections and compliance with operational minimum standards were considered during planning.

Subsequently, the demand potential was estimated using PTV’s nationwide traffic model, PTV Validate, and by applying the modal-split estimation methodology of the Standardized Evaluation.

For each bus route, a profile with the most important route characteristics was created, and a comprehensive network map was developed for the entire system. Finally, an extensive strategy for the implementation of the rail-bus core network was presented.

Results

The developed Weser-Ems rail-bus core network, consisting of 49 predominantly newly designed bus lines with service standards comparable to regional rail (SPNV), combined with the existing and to-be-reactivated SPNV lines, provides a powerful backbone for sustainable mobility in the Weser-Ems region. The political consensus achieved across 17 different administrative authorities (12 districts and 5 independent cities) represents a significant milestone.

The rail-bus core network offers highly attractive, all-day connections to all transport-relevant locations in the Weser-Ems region, creating substantial added value. According to the conducted potential assessment, high passenger demand is also expected. At the same time, the concept serves as a basis for funding applications under the program for regionally significant bus lines.