Local public transport (LPT) faces major challenges. On the one hand, it must remain economical, while on the other hand, it must also help drive forward the mobility transition. In addition, LPT passengers continue to want to see improvements to the service.

The goal of the state capital Mainz is to keep LPT attractive and affordable with the 4th update of the local transport plan (NVP). The current update therefore focuses on the efficient design of transport services, feasible improvements in attractiveness, and the continuation of barrier-free stop conversions.

During the first local transport forum, which took place on July 2, 2024, at the Bürgerhaus Hechtsheim from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the approximately 150 participants interested in public transport were first informed by the consulting firm PTV Transport Consult GmbH about the background of the NVP and the key topics set out in the fourth update. The possibilities and limitations of the NVP were also presented. The PTV presentation is available for download under "Further information."

Following the presentation, participants had the opportunity to engage with the following four topic areas:

The 2nd Local Transport Forum was once again held at the Hechtsheim Community Center (Am Heuergrund 8, Mainz). The event started at 6:30 p.m. in the Rheinhessensaal and was free of charge. Registration was not required. Anyone interested in public transport was invited to find out about the findings of the expert agency PTV Transport Consult GmbH on the key topics. The presentation also included examples of how the suggestions from the 2024 participation round were incorporated into the development of measures and strategies. The PTV presentation is available for download under "Further information."

Afterwards, participants had the opportunity to visit an interactive gallery to learn about the results and the respective topics at the following theme islands and to engage in dialogue with the experts: 

In the ongoing process of drawing up the 4th update of the NVP for the city of Mainz, the following milestones are still planned for 2025 according to the current schedule:

• Hearing procedure for public authorities (TÖB) in accordance with Section 11 (5) NVG RLP: The hearing procedure will run from June 10 to July 8, 2025, inclusive;
• Until October 2025: Evaluation of TÖB participation statements, preparation of final report, and preparation of draft resolution
• November 2025: Final decision on the 4th update of the NVP in the city council