Traffic and public transport, Routes | Without a better public transport service, an increase in tolls is not easy to sell

Opinions This is a debate post. The post expresses the writer’s views.

In the proposal for the National Transport Plan the state withdraws from half the bill or NOK 500 million for the construction of Majorstuen station. The station is part of the work on the completion of the Fornebubanen at an estimated NOK 30 billion.

City councilor for environment and transport Marit Vea (V) expresses disappointment and disbelief at the government’s breach of promise. There is good reason for that. If the progress of important collective projects is put in jeopardy, the ripple effects will be noticeable. Without an improved public transport service, an increase in tolls is not an easy sell.

Which reminds us that there are more than the city council who feel disappointment and disbelief. Just ask those who change between bus, tram and subway at Bekkestua in Bærum. But here it has not been about money.

After investments of NOK 500 million in a public transport hub of European standard with a fast and reliable direct connection with tramway to Skøyen via CC Vest, the connection will be cut for the summer and travelers will be referred to buses. On a busy road network with queues and delays. And don’t blame the state.

ALSO READ: The tram service between Øraker and Bekkestua will be discontinued from July

also read

The shopping center in the west is worried by what is happening to the tram: – Sad and demotivating

Tear down what we are trying to build up

For Ruter bets on buses. Residents, businesses and travelers are baffled by public spending when Sporveien announces that they will demolish modern infrastructure for the rail system, prioritized and financed with tolls, which should make public transport more competitive in accordance with the goal of emission-free transport in a growing city region towards 2050. It is so one has to wonder what else has gone under the radar of the audit.

We can spend as much money as we want, but the climate goals will not be achieved by tearing down what we are trying to build. The Fornebubanen is not an isolated initiative that lives its own life, only all stations are fully funded and completed. It forms part of a coherent transport system for travelers throughout the region.

If the network of connections between central public transport hubs such as Skøyen and Bekkestua is weakened, car traffic on the E18 increases. It is neither in line with the rationale for the Fornebubanen nor investments in Majorstuen station. Could this be why the state pulls on the emergency brake?

Read more comments, debate posts and Oslo stories on Avisa Oslo’s debate page Oslodebatten