The population and workforce of the canton of Obwalden are continuing to grow. According to the cantonal structure plan, they will both increase by 10 percent over the next 20 years. Furthermore, tourism offers will be further developed. One example is the Titlis 3020 project in Engelberg, which includes construction of a new mountain station, development of an existing broadcasting tower, and a new single-track cable car on the Stand-Titlis route.
This should all lead to an increased demand for mobility on the roads and railways. The canton is preparing for this with an overall transport strategy that the cantonal government of Obwalden has now presented. The aim is to “safely further develop mobility in a resource-friendly way” within the canton according to Construction Director Josef Hess (independent) in a related press release.
The overall transport strategy comprises all means of transport and transport issues concerning everyday traffic. Targets, strategies and over 100 measures with priorities and responsibilities have been developed. The press release mentions restructuring through roads in a way that is compatible with settlements, targeted development of cycling infrastructure, and further development of public transport as particularly important measures. The planning horizon has been set as 2040.
In addition to the canton and communities, work on the overall transport strategy has included trade associations, tourism organizations, mountain railways, and representatives from public transport operators. It aims to provide a basis for further development of the cantonal structure plan as well as other plans from communities. The cantonal government of Obwalden will cover the overall transport strategy on January 27.
