passenger movement - An environmental organization pushes for a discussion on funding public transit.
The BUND (Federation for Environment and Nature Conservation) wants to initiate a discussion about the future funding of public transportation in Berlin. According to the managing director of BUND Berlin, Tilmann Heuser, "A thriving city needs a well-functioning and appealing public transportation system." Currently, the maintenance of the current offer seems uncertain due to years of inadequate funding and significant staff recruitment issues. Therefore, discourse about financing the upkeep, operation, and expansion of public transportation is crucial.
Historically, the primary resources for buses, trams, U- and S-Bahn trains have been ticket sales and state subsidies. In recent times, the newly appointed transport senator, Ute Bonde (CDU), has been considering alternative funding methods given the potential for shrinking budgets. These include a "Vienna Model" employer contribution for U-Bahn construction, a vehicle toll for cars, or increased parking fees. However, the CDU faction has recently dismissed the senator.
Heuser expressed disbelief at the CDU's actions, stating "A small employer contribution or a long-delayed raise in residents' parking fees - everything should be off-limits." Meanwhile, the Green transportation politician, Antje Kapek, expressed that practical ideas generated by the senator shouldn't be discarded due to the CDU's party ideology.
