German Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder has announced plans to simplify the planning and approval processes for infrastructure projects, particularly for bridge construction.
According to Schnieder, the current system is inefficient, as a new plan would be required even if the new bridge is built in the same location as the old one, but a few meters away. The minister aims to reduce the time it takes to complete these procedures, stating, “We need more tempo in the planning and approval processes.”
Schnieder also emphasized the need for speed in the allocation of funds from a special reserve, with the goal of seeing tangible results by the end of the year. He believes that several projects could begin immediately if the funds are released and his aim is to have the public see progress in the coming months.
The majority of the investment in infrastructure will focus on the rail network, as Schnieder believes the problems are most pressing in this area. However, the minister also highlighted the need for urgent repairs and modernizations in the road network, including the elimination of bottlenecks and the filling of gaps, as well as the modernization of waterways.