Flat-rate investment subsidy according to § 12 Public Transport Act of North Rhine-Westphalia

The lump-sum investment funding according to § 12 ÖPNVG NRW supports special-purpose associations in North Rhine-Westphalia in the modernization and expansion of public transport infrastructure. At least 150 million euros are available annually in the form of grants, which are allocated proportionally based on historical fund allocations from 2002–2006. Special-purpose associations such as the Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr, the Zweckverband Nahverkehr Rheinland, and the Zweckverband Nahverkehr Westfalen-Lippe independently decide on the use of the funds. Funding is provided particularly for the expansion and conversion of bus stops, the construction of shelters and canopies, park and ride facilities, as well as barrier-free new constructions and conversions of platforms and the modernization of train stations. The funding rate amounts to up to 85 percent of eligible expenses, with at least half of the grants required to be used for projects outside of regional rail transport (SPNV). Unused funds may be utilized by the associations up to six months after the end of the year; thereafter, unused amounts must be repaid to the state.

Payments are made quarterly in four equal installments by the district governments to the respective special-purpose associations. An application procedure is not required; instead, an annual resolution on the catalog of measures to be financed is necessary in the special-purpose association assembly. The funding prerequisites include the status as a special-purpose association within the meaning of ÖPNVG NRW § 5 as well as having its seat and activities in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The state budget is supplemented by funds from the Entflechtungsgesetz (Decoupling Act), whereby for new constructions or line expansions exceeding three million euros, integration into the public transport infrastructure requirements plan must also be considered. Transparent documentation is ensured through an annual confirmation by September 30 of the following year. This guarantees that the lump-sum funds provided are used efficiently for the maintenance and further development of local public transport.