.webp?t=1788261587450&s=0.5&f=webp "© ÖBB")
Unsealing, greening, thinking ahead
In doing so, ÖBB Infrastructure is focusing on specific measures to ensure a more resource-efficient refurbishment: existing infrastructure will be preserved and reused, sealed surfaces will be reduced, and solutions for climate adaptation and resource conservation will be implemented.
The redevelopment will create an attractive station for the passengers of tomorrow. The project combines accessibility, preservation of existing infrastructure, de-sealing and climate adaptation. The station is part of the ongoing investment in railway stations and stops in the Rhine Valley–Walgau region. Construction work is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026.
Your Benefits
- Fully accessible rail transport
- Preservation and continued use of existing infrastructure
- The ‘sponge city’ principle to improve the local microclimate
- Removing impervious surfaces and promoting water infiltration
- Sustainable timber construction for new buildings
- Use of selected building materials with a lower carbon footprint, provided this can be substantiated by product data
Key features
Conservation of resources and preservation of existing structures
The modernisation of Klaus station takes a holistic approach. Rather than completely demolishing existing structures and rebuilding them from scratch, a conscious decision has been made to preserve what is already in place.
By managing existing structures responsibly, resources can be conserved and ‘grey energy’ retained. At the same time, a modern station is being created that meets the requirements of an efficient public transport system. The preservation of existing structures demonstrates that the preservation of existing infrastructure, modernisation and resource conservation are being considered as an integrated whole in this project.
Sponge City: Climate-ready for the future
A key feature of the project is the implementation of ‘sponge city’ principles. This involves designing areas so that rainwater can be stored, absorbed and released locally for as long as possible.
This helps to
- reduce heat islands
- improve the local microclimate,
- strengthen vegetation and
- relieve the strain on the sewerage system during heavy rainfall events.
The Klaus stop will therefore not only become a transport hub; it also demonstrates how infrastructure projects can respond to heavy rainfall and heat through concrete climate adaptation measures.
More green space through de-sealing
Wherever possible, sealed surfaces are reduced and replaced with green or water-permeable areas.
De-sealing improves the infiltration of rainwater and enhances the quality of the environment around the bus stop. At the same time, new green spaces are created, which enhance the area.
Wood as a building material
Wood is being used as a building material for the new structures. When sourced and processed appropriately, timber can help conserve resources and blends in with the townscape of Klaus. At the same time, this construction method supports the planned resource-conservation measures within the project.
Climate concrete in use
The modernisation works also involve the use of selected building materials that can contribute to a lower carbon footprint. These include climate concrete containing technical carbon. A test report on the use of climate concrete in the services building at Bregenz railway station shows that, in the specific application examined, CO₂ equivalents were saved compared with standard concrete. The exact results and assumptions can be found in the test report, which is available for download.
Accessibility on the move
Alongside measures to conserve resources, people are at the heart of the project. The station will be comprehensively upgraded to ensure full accessibility. Modern access points, short walking distances and improved wayfinding will ensure greater comfort for daily rail travel in future.
Reuse of the existing building
The former small station building, in the post-war modernist style, will be preserved and put to new use. Once the construction work is complete, a coffee roastery with a small café will move in.