€1.9 billion to support investment in European transport projects

Today the Commission launched a round of calls for proposals under the EU funding programme for transport infrastructure (‘Connecting Europe Facility’). The Connecting Europe Facility supports the transition to low-emission mobility and stimulates investment for the purpose of job creation. Examples of projects already being funded include the Brenner rail tunnel and Rail Baltica. Under this new series of calls, €1.9 billion will be made available to finance key transport projects in Europe, from which €1.1 billion has been earmarked for the 15 EU Member States eligible for the cohesion fund in order to ensure sustainable development in the internal market. For the first time, €40 million will also be dedicated to infrastructure projects linking the EU with its neighbouring countries. Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said, “The EU supports over 460 projects across the territory of the Member States contributing to better mobility and connectivity for European citizens and businesses. With this new call, we are giving more focus to intelligent transport systems across Europe and to infrastructure development in the cohesion states. The Commission is committed to building the transport network of the future while providing to keep countries and regions united.” More information is available here.