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Germany Moves to Fast-Track Infrastructure With Draft 'Infrastructure Future' Law

Officials frame the push as a way to unblock long-delayed rail and road upgrades.

Overview

  • The federal cabinet is set to adopt a draft that labels major rail, highway, bridge and waterway projects as of overriding public interest for priority treatment.
  • Railway electrification on stretches under 60 kilometers would proceed without a formal environmental impact assessment.
  • All related permitting and participation would follow a digital-only standard with unified rules across authorities.
  • Certain road projects in the federal transport plan could gain priority when deemed militarily relevant.
  • The package pairs the bill with social and climate steps, including expanded private pensions with a new youth-focused subsidy and replacing the heating law with a building modernization law targeted for cabinet review in spring.