The situation is clear from the district administrator's point of view: the A81 highway is chronically overloaded, the B27 as an alternative route has one of the highest traffic loads in Baden-Württemberg and even in the city center - for example on Ludwigsburg's Schlossstraße - driving bans have been imposed in the past due to high levels of particulate matter. At the same time, the existing bus system is reaching its capacity limits. More routes, more frequent services or larger vehicles are hardly feasible.
"The light rail system is the logical and necessary response to this crisis," concluded the head of the district administration. Against this backdrop, the LUCIE light rail system represents an overdue investment in a sustainable mobility structure for the district administrator. It should encourage people to switch from cars to public transport - with more comfort, greater reliability and significantly increased capacity compared to existing services. The positive impact on the climate and quality of life is also a key argument in favor of the project.
Efficient connection for the region and an opportunity for trade
The planned route of the light rail is intended to create an efficient connection from Schwieberdingen to Pattonville - with a direct connection to the Stuttgart streetcar network (SSB) and prospects in the direction of Waiblingen. "This is not just a pipe dream, but concrete relief for tens of thousands of commuters - and active climate protection." The special-purpose association is already expecting around 10,000 daily passengers - a clear signal of the project's potential.
The district administrator also commented on the discussion about the inner city line. Numerous examples prove that light rail can contribute to the revitalization of inner cities. The fears of local businesses were taken seriously, but were not fundamentally justified in the view of the administration. On the contrary, a well-integrated route would strengthen the public space.
"We must not sit back and relax now"
The financing of the project was also a topic at the association meeting. "We are making every effort to find potential savings, that is undisputed. We are reviewing voluntary services and lowering standards," explained Allgaier. The light rail benefits from an attractive
funding backdrop, which makes the project economically viable. The aim must therefore be to think strategically and move LUCIE forward with reliable planning. "We must not now
sit back and question really important projects for the future of entire generations. Rather, it is our task to think beyond the current budget plans and to plan and implement LUCIE in the best possible way," concluded the District Administrator.
