Extensive expansion of Limburgs bus network

Limburg an der Lahn is sending a strong signal for the mobility of the future: from 1 July 2025, the city bus network will be significantly expanded. For the first time, the entire city area, including all neighbourhoods, will be served in a closely timed 30-minute rhythm. This is an important step for local public transport in rural areas and a milestone in the history of Limburg's city line.

The decision to expand the network so comprehensively represents a clear commitment to sustainable mobility and offers citizens a serious alternative to the car. This is a remarkable development, especially in rural areas, where there often seems to be no alternative to motorised private transport.

Largest order in the history of the city line

In order to achieve this ambitious goal, the city has awarded the largest contract in its history. A bidding consortium consisting of Dornburger Linienverkehr and ESE Verkehrsgesellschaft from Staufenberg won the tender. The expansion will massively increase the transport capacity of the city line: The number of lines will increase from six to eleven, and the number of kilometres covered will rise from around 316,400 to almost one million per year.

This expansion should not only make everyday life easier for Limburg's citizens, but also establish public transport as a real alternative to the car. The increased frequency and the inclusion of all parts of the city will make switching to the bus more attractive - a development that is urgently needed, especially in times of climate change and rising traffic volumes.

Launch in July 2025

The introduction of the new extended bus network was originally planned for the beginning of 2025, but had to be postponed to 1 July 2025 in order to allow sufficient time for the procurement of the new buses and the preparations of the contracted company. The existing service will continue to operate until the extended network is launched.

Attractive alternative to the car

The new 30-minute interval is intended to connect the city districts with the city centre more quickly and regularly. The frequency within the city centre will also be significantly increased. In addition, the number of stops will be increased in order to shorten the walking distance to the nearest bus stop. This should not only make using the bus more convenient, but also help to increase Limburg's attractiveness as a shopping and commuter centre.

Another aim of the city is to encourage people to switch from car to bus. Especially in a city like Limburg, where distances are manageable and finding a parking space is often a hassle, public transport offers a welcome alternative. ‘We want to make citizens an offer that allows them to leave their car at home and use the bus in comfort,’ says the city's plan.

Voluntary commitment of the city

The operation of the city line in Limburg is a voluntary service provided by the city - there is no legal obligation to maintain such a local transport service. Nevertheless, the city has decided to invest heavily in the expansion. The new contract for the bus service runs until December 2034, and during the week the buses operate from 5 am to 9 pm. On Saturdays, the service will be slightly reduced and on Sundays, the ‘LahnStar’ on-demand service offers flexible mobility.

With the massive expansion of the city line, Limburg is focussing on sustainable transport development that also works in rural areas. The move to expand the bus network to such an extent is a clear signal in favour of a turnaround in transport that will seriously compete with the car - and not just in urban conurbations, but also in smaller towns and rural areas.