RMV and NVV commemorate their anniversary and strategize for future expansion - RMV and NVV commemorate anniversary, outline strategies for future expansion
Hesse's Public Transportation: RMV and NVV Mark Milestones, Aiming for Future Growth
Times have changed significantly since the introduction of the Germany Ticket. In 1995, a dramatic shift occurred with the formation of transport associations Rhine-Main Verkehrsverbund (RMV) and Nordhessischer Verkehrsverbund (NVV) in Hesse. These associations amalgamated a disjointed network of fares and schedules, leading to a substantial surge in passenger numbers. They aim to further this trend in the future.
"One timetable, one ticket, one fare" served as the motto when RMV launched. The streamlined approach employed in the RMV area eventually inspired a nationwide movement with the introduction of the Germany Ticket. Three decades ago, there was a surge in public transport usage due to its newfound simplicity.
Last year, the RMV set a record with 825 million passengers, a remarkable achievement amid staff shortages, construction sites, and increased remote work, according to CEO Knut Ringat. This upward trend is set to continue.
Despite ongoing construction-related delays and cancellations in train traffic within the RMV region, Ringat envisages long-term improvement. He calls the current period "the decade of construction," highlighting that the situation is unlikely to change within the next five years. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic, asserting that the hardship will be worth it, as the service will be significantly improved post-2026.
Regarding the criticism facing staff shortages in signal boxes, Ringat anticipates improvements in training and modernization efforts by German Railways later this year.
Addressing the need for additional trains following the expansion, Ringat emphasizes the need for increased funding from federal and state governments. With escalating fares and no more saving opportunities, the RMV administration regards additional financing as essential.
In the realm of rural mobility, connecting less urbanized areas is a priority for the NVV. The association relies on on-demand transport services, with existing offers within the association poised for future automation. A pilot project with Deutsche Bahn is underway in Darmstadt and the Offenbach district.
For the NVV, headquartered in Kassel, enhancing public transport in rural areas is a key concern. The association has expanded its offer, particularly in bus traffic, through the "Every Village - Every Hour" campaign. The NVV claims that the mission—to ensure every location is accessible by bus or train at least once an hour—is nearly achieved across the region. This, coupled with the Germany Ticket, has spurred continued demand growth.
The federal and state governments' reliable and adequate funding is crucial for both urban and rural areas, asserts the NVV spokesperson. Further expansion necessitates increased financing. The NVV urges that the newly formed federal government's investment program addresses the need for infrastructure improvements in rail networks, stations, and roadways in North Hesse.
To mark the 30th anniversary of its establishment, the RMV is hosting an event for invited guests at the Römer in Frankfurt on May 28th. The celebration will include campaigns, actions, and prize draws for passengers throughout the summer. The NVV will launch a campaign titled "You are the Best," featuring a prize draw, on the same day. A grand celebration is planned for September.
In the future, the RMV and NVV aim to continue the surging trend in passenger numbers, as they strive for growth in Hesse's public transportation. As the RMV anticipates long-term improvement despite current construction delays, they are also advocating for increased financing from government sources to expand services, especially in rural areas, where the NVV is relying on automation and modernization efforts to improve rural mobility.
