ÖBB plans double-tracking of Werndorf–Spielfeld-Straß line by 2039

In April 2026 ÖBB presented first study results on the planned double-tracking of the Südstrecke Werndorf–Spielfeld-Straß; the plans also include renewing the Ehrenhausen and Spielfeld-Straß stations, expanded park-and-ride facilities and replacing level crossings with over- or underpasses or alternative routes, and trains are to reach up to 160 km/h. A below-ground alignment with an underground station, examined at a municipality's request, performs poorly: the Kainach could not be crossed underground with the minimum gradient required, and the trans-European line would have to be closed completely for at least three years, so above-ground expansion remains the best variant. Planning and surveys for the environmental impact assessment are under way, and construction is planned between 2030 and 2039. The date is a placeholder: the article gives 2030 to 2039 as the construction period, so the end of 2039 is used. (LOK Report, 23 Apr 2026)