German Verkehrsverbund organisations in between operators and authorities
Public transport agencies (Verkehrsverbünde) are a central part of the market organisation of local public transport services in Germany. But where does the road currently go to?
published in: Der Nahverkehr 3/2011
Typically they are in the form of a public transport authority (PTA) or, alternatively, of an association of operators. Currently public transport agencies with shares only held by PTAs and mixed associations are in the majority. Our analysis shows that the involvement of PTAs was realised primarily where the transport agencies serve wide areas and/or include a high number of operators. Nevertheless, a final statement on the level of influence of PTAs is not possible. Here the analysis shows that internal organisational structures differ widely and are mostly designed to meet local needs.