Mobility in the Oberbergischer Kreis – March 2026: Tariff Reforms, Cross-Border Cooperation, and Transport Planning

Tariff Reform and Special Tariff: Public Transport Prices Negotiated Anew

The VRS tariff reform played a central role in the Oberbergischer Kreis. As part of the planned merger of the VRS and AVV network tariffs into the "Rheinlandtarif" and the reduction of price levels, the need arose to cushion the price increases for OVAG customers. The current price level 2a is being reclassified into the new price level 2, resulting in a price increase for adults from €3.90 to €5.50 – an increase of over 40%.

To counteract the negative effects, a special tariff was introduced for trips between municipalities within the Oberbergischer Kreis. This special tariff amounts to €4.50 and reduces the price increase by €1.00. The funding is covered by OVAG forgoing additional revenue, totaling up to €320,000 over a period of 24 months.

The reform brings both risks and opportunities: While OVAG customers are financially more affected, the special tariff offers some relief. At the same time, the air-line tariff "eezy.nrw" is to be promoted more strongly in order to create alternative, more affordable options for commuters.

Crossing District Boundaries: Cooperation with the Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

Another central topic was the provision of cross-border transport services. A delegated public-law agreement between the Oberbergischer Kreis and the Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis was concluded. This agreement concerns several bus lines operating between the two districts, including lines 261, 310, 421, and 440.

The funding for these lines remains largely unchanged, but the responsibility for their operation is being redistributed. Lines such as 335 and 426 operate under joint concessions with the involvement of wupsi and OVAG, with funding in accordance with the agreements. The agreement replaces an older funding agreement from November 2015 and aims to improve coordination within the transport network.

This cooperation is particularly important for commuters who work or live in both districts. It highlights the trend of coordinating public transport across municipal boundaries in order to improve mobility in the region.

Mobility Concept and OFT Project: Progress and Challenges

In March 2026, a report on the implementation of the mobility concept was presented. The mobility concept, which was already approved by the District Council in June 2025, aims to improve public transport in the Oberbergischer Kreis in a sustainable manner. The current status shows that some measures have already been implemented, while others have been delayed due to personnel shortages or organizational difficulties.

Another highlight was the final report on the funding project "Oberberg fährt im Takt!" (OFT!), supported by the Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and Transport. The goal of the project was to make public transport in the Oberbergischer Kreis more modern and attractive. This included the introduction of monti buses, improvements in passenger information, and expanded services in the region.

Despite the funding, much remained unchanged. Staff shortages in driver positions and the special timetable of OVAG hindered the planned measures. Unused funds will now be reinvested in 2026 into already ongoing projects to ensure the long-term stability of public transport.

Conclusion: Mobility as a Key to Regional Development

The March negotiations in the Oberbergischer Kreis show that mobility is a central building block for regional development. The tariff reforms, cross-border cooperation, and progress in the mobility concept underscore the need to make public transport more attractive and financially viable. At the same time, challenges such as staff shortages and financial risks remain.

In the coming months, it will depend on how well the special tariff models function and whether the cooperation with neighboring districts leads to a stable and attractive transport planning. The Oberbergischer Kreis is moving towards sustainable mobility – but the path there requires political courage, financial planning, and strong citizen participation.