ÖBB & Vienna Transform Station Area, Boost S-Bahn & Green Public Space

ÖBB, in partnership with the City of Vienna and the 20th district (Brigittenau), has initiated a significant urban renewal project at Maria-Restituta-Platz, adjacent to Wien Handelskai station. This initiative, part of the broader Vienna S-Bahn trunk line upgrade programme, aims to transform the station’s vicinity into a vibrant, green public space while enhancing critical rail infrastructure.

The strategic objective is to create an attractive, accessible public area that complements the upgraded S-Bahn line, fostering a higher quality of life for residents and commuters. The “Out of the Asphalt” motto signifies a commitment to incorporating significant green elements, including new green islands, a water feature, and a drinking fountain, alongside an expanded cycle path.

Enhancing Urban Mobility and Livability

The comprehensive upgrade programme at Wien Handelskai station is a cornerstone of ÖBB’s commitment to future-proofing the Vienna S-Bahn main line and its connections into Lower Austria by the close of 2027. This involves extending station platforms to 220 metres to accommodate longer, higher-capacity modern trains, thereby improving the public transport offering for both city residents and commuters. The addition of new access buildings on Engerthstraße will streamline interchanges between bus and rail services, a crucial element in integrated urban mobility.

Operational Integration and Public Space Redesign

The modernization of Wien Handelskai station is nearing its final stages, with the new platforms and access buildings scheduled to be operational alongside the timetable change in mid-December 2025. Concurrently, the substantial redesign of the approximately 11,500 m² Maria-Restituta-Platz commences. ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG is bearing the majority of the construction costs, with the City of Vienna providing crucial financial contributions and district-level funding for the square’s redevelopment.

Strategic Vision for Sustainable Urban Development

Judith Engel, Executive Board Member of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, highlighted the dual purpose of the project: “With the Vienna S-Bahn trunk line upgrade project, and the modernisation of Wien Handelskai station, we are making targeted investments in the future of urban mobility. Combining high-performance rail infrastructure with an attractive, green public space demonstrates how modern mobility and quality of life can go hand in hand.” This synergy between essential transport infrastructure and enhanced public amenity underscores a forward-thinking approach to urban planning.

Ulli Sima, City Councillor for Planning and Mobility, detailed the envisioned public space: “The areas will have greening squares, more than 6,000 m² of unsealed surface, 13 new trees, a water feature and seating areas will ensure a pleasant place to linger in the future, and the surrounding cycling infrastructure will also be significantly improved!” Further enhancing the comfort and sustainability of the area, the redevelopment includes over 230 m² of new or enlarged green spaces, light-coloured paving for improved rainwater infiltration, and cooling features such as two drinking fountains and pergolas with misting systems. The entire redevelopment of Maria-Restituta-Platz and the station is slated for completion by May 2026.

Industry Context

This comprehensive urban redevelopment and infrastructure upgrade at Wien Handelskai station exemplifies a growing trend within the European railway industry: the integration of high-performance public transport with high-quality urban public spaces. For industry leaders, this project demonstrates the tangible benefits of investing in both passenger capacity and the surrounding environment. Such initiatives not only boost passenger numbers by making public transport more attractive and convenient but also contribute to city livability, potentially influencing investment decisions in similar urban rail projects across the continent and setting benchmarks for sustainable urban mobility solutions.