ÖBB Modernizes Mattersburg Line: Electrification & €143M Investment

Austrian Railways (ÖBB) is advancing its ambitious modernization program with the completion of the first phase of electrification and station upgrades for the vital Mattersburg line. By 2027, the entire route, connecting Wiener Neustadt to the Hungarian border at Sopron, will be fully electrified, featuring modernized and accessible stations, marking a significant investment of approximately €143 million.

The initial phase of work, conducted between October and November 2025, successfully established the foundational elements for the overhead catenary system by driving piles for contact pole foundations. This crucial step ensures the continued operation of services, including late-night trains, with normal schedules maintained throughout the upgrade process. The comprehensive €143 million investment underscores ÖBB’s commitment to enhancing both its primary intercity corridors and its extensive regional rail network, aligning with the company’s strategic modernization agenda.

Strategic Impact and Regional Benefits

Federal Minister for Innovation, Mobility, and Infrastructure, Peter Hanke, emphasized the project’s significance for sustainable transport in Burgenland. “The electrification of the Mattersburg railway line is a decisive step towards modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly mobility in Burgenland,” Hanke stated, highlighting the role of infrastructure expansion in providing an attractive alternative to private transport and improving safety by replacing level crossings with underpasses. The modernization is expected to yield substantial benefits for daily commuters and residents, enhancing the region’s connectivity and attractiveness.

Mayor of Mattersburg, Claudia Schlager, echoed these sentiments, noting the line’s historical importance and the tangible improvements the upgrades will bring. “Electrification and modernization bring real improvements for all commuters and for everyone who depends on reliable connections every day,” Schlager remarked. The project’s scope includes not only electrification but also the modernization of six stations to ensure accessibility, doubling of track on select sections, upgrades to signaling and drainage systems, and the addition of Park & Ride and Bike & Ride facilities at five key stations, thereby adding value to the community and strengthening its appeal as a place to live and work.

Operational and Development Timeline

The project, which commenced in 2024, is slated for full completion in 2027. A significant operational interruption is planned for the main construction phase in 2026, with rail traffic suspended on the Wiener Neustadt Hbf – Sopron section from February to December to facilitate extensive works. This extended closure is necessary to implement the most impactful upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption in the long term and paving the way for fully electric operations by the project’s conclusion.