City of Königstein in Taunus gets provincial funding to create its SUMP

The German town of Königstein in Taunus has begun planning its integrated mobility plan. Königstein, with about 17 000 inhabitants, attracts many visitors due to its status as a climatic health resort. The city is receiving support from the Hessian Ministry of Economics through its programme for integrated mobility plans, which follow the European Commission’s guidance on sustainable urban mobility plans. Specifically, the Ministry is providing EUR 145 000 to fund additional staff, along with EUR 51 000 for other planning process costs. In addition, the Hessian Competence Centre for Sustainable Mobility Planning (Fachzentrum Nachhaltige Mobilitätsplanung) is guiding Königstein through the process by providing training for the new staff as part of the centre’s learning programme.

The Hessian Minister of Transport, Kaweh Mansoori, expressed his satisfaction that a middle-sized town is adopting the SUMP approach to create more efficient and sustainable transport systems. As the SUMP approach is a holistic one, embracing all forms of transport, he hopes that the regional funding will help the City of Königstein meet the mobility needs of its residents and improve their quality of life.

Königstein’s Mayor, Beatrice Schenk-Motzko, said that the Ministry’s support will help the city harness the positive effects of public transport, walking, cycling, and the electrification of vehicle fleets, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Since 2024, the regional support programme for integrated mobility plans in line with SUMP standards has focused on small and medium-sized municipalities, providing financial support and guidance for the planning process.

Author: Claus Köllinger

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.