With a modernised train station, new park-and-ride space, bike lanes, and energy-efficient buses, citizens of Kościerzyna, Poland are reaping the benefits of increased mobility.
- 16 August 2019
Thus far, the project has been very positively perceived, particularly the renovated railway station, which has become a beautiful and recognisable showcase of Kościerzyna. Thanks to their meeting of the highest environmental standards, our new buses are having a positive impact on the environment, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions. For the first time in our city’s history, we have a direct connection to Gdańsk, which has increased our citizens’ interest in rail transport.
To better connect the Polish city of Kościerzyna to the rest of the Pomeranian region and increase the mobility of its citizens, this EU-funded project is building a new, state-of-the-art transportation hub. More than a bus stop or train station, it is designed to enhance public transportation options by seamlessly integrating them with individual modes of mobility such as bicycles and cars.
Once complete, the new Kościerzyna transportation hub will improve travel connections and communication with the rest of the region. Already, thanks to a complete renovation and modernisation of the railway station and a direct connection to Gdansk, passenger numbers have increased. This in turn has contributed to a decrease in road congestion. With the purchase of five energy-efficient buses, the city is seeing a reduction in CO2 emissions caused by public transportation.
Trains, bikes and automobiles
The two core elements of the project are the renovation of the railway station and the construction of the park-and-ride facility. As to the former, work included renovating the walls, replacing windows and doors, and redoing floors and ceilings. The main station building was transformed into a public space capable of hosting cultural events, museum exhibitions, and educational services. A pedestrian tunnel under the tracks, with exits to the platforms, will be constructed.
Two secondary elements of the project included buying new, low-emission buses and creating bicycle lanes leading to the new hub. Both of these elements have been completed.
Construction of the park-and-ride car park, underground pedestrian crossing, and bicycle lanes will be completed in the near future.
Successes and awards
According to city administrators, the long-term benefit of the project will be a substantially improved regional transportation system. The project is also having an immediate effect, namely, giving residents better access to the greater metro area’s lucrative labour market, universities, and cultural events. Companies are benefiting from having a more mobile workforce and easier access to new investment opportunities.
The project is the recipient of several national awards, including a ‘Proper Heritage’ award from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage and General Conservator of Monuments for its revitalisation of Kościerzyna station.
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Kościerski Dworzec KolejowyTotal investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Transport Hub in Kościerzyna - Construction of an integrated hub in Kościerzyna, involving the renovation and redevelopment of the railway station and the creation of a public transport system in Kościerzyna district” is EUR 7 586 088 (PLN 32 608 826), with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 5 467 907 (PLN 23 503 820) through the Pomorskie Regional Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Internal Market”.