Survey finds support for Innsbruck cable car link

Most people in Innsbruck and the eastern upland region support a proposed cable car between the city and the Patscherkofel cable car’s valley station, according to a study commissioned by the Tyrol state government and reported by ORF.

The survey of about 3,700 people found that 72 percent of respondents in the eastern uplands considered the connection worthwhile. In Innsbruck, 67 percent shared that view.

More than a third of respondents said they would use the cable car regularly: about four percent would travel on it daily, around 10 percent several times a week and about 24 percent at least several times a month.

Respondents particularly valued the expected comfort, safety and punctuality. They also cited environmental friendliness and independence from road traffic as advantages. Views differed over land use and the effect on the landscape, while exposure to wind was seen as a possible drawback.

A 2021 feasibility study identified a route from Sillpark and the railway station via Olympiaworld and Lans to the Patscherkofel cable car as having the greatest potential to improve transport. It estimated the connection could cut car journeys by 4,700 a day, or 35 percent.

The two studies provide initial data, but do not amount to a decision to build the cable car. Questions about connections, the precise design and costs remain unresolved, and the current project stage does not allow a reliable cost estimate.

Tyrol transport councillor Rene Zumtobel of the Social Democratic Party said the studies examined what might be possible and how residents viewed the idea. He said municipalities would now need to assess the survey results and decide whether to take further steps.