FDP proposes high-speed bus network as Willich's budget-friendly transit fix
The Mobility Working Group of the FDP parliamentary faction has presented a clear concept for a high-performance, affordable, and rapidly implementable bus-based public transport system. The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions in the Planning Committee, where the CDU has called for an assessment of new express bus routes—a move explicitly supported by the FDP. At the same time, the FDP points out that back in 2020, its own motion to introduce a time-limited direct bus service to explore demand for the S28 extension was approved but has yet to see any visible progress.
"When decisions are made, they must be actively pursued. We support the CDU's initiative, but we also have to ask why the 2020 resolution has had no consequences to this day," says Ralf Klein, head of the Mobility Working Group. The FDP's newly published position paper is based on a comprehensive analysis of commuter flows, public transport cost structures, and the city's current budget situation. The party calls for a consistent focus on strengthening key bus corridors, supplemented by on-demand services, company shuttles, and optimized school and commuter transport. "We deliberately relied on verifiable data. Our goal is reliable public transport that delivers results and remains affordable for Willich," emphasizes Antonia Linder, a member of the working group.*
The FDP insists that alongside the SPD and Green Party's push to examine an extension of Krefeld's tram line 042, equal consideration must be given to reinforcing high-capacity bus routes. From the liberals' perspective, the project and operating costs of a tram line must be critically assessed in light of Willich's budget constraints and cannot be evaluated in isolation. "We want to improve mobility and explore cost-effective solutions. Buses are flexible, quick to expand, and far more affordable than new rail projects," stresses Kristin Schiffer, an FDP faction member.
