In the fall of 2013 a completely revamped public transport system was introduced in Västerås, with a focus on simplicity and short headways. New and sustainable bus lines were introduced to increase speed in the public transport system. In order to cope with future capacity issues where tramways might be part of the solution, the lines are planned according to the motto "think tramway - drive bus".

In may 2014 are preliminary study regarding the introduction of trams in Västerås was conducted. But the process to get trams on the streets of Västerås is a long one, and it will be at least 15 years before they are operating.

The city's general plan is addressing a few strategies for a sustainable development of Västerås, where pedestrians, cyclists and public transport should be prioritized. An attractive and expanded public transport systems plays a very large role in this, and should be seen as a 'spine' and important part of the city development both in the city and in the rural areas. Another important strategy is to make the city denser by not further expanding it outward, to increase the potential passenger numbers for the public transport. The general plan states that before 2050, Västerås will have its first tramway serving the area between the city center and the hospital.

In Västerås a new multi modal travel center is being constructed, and it's taking a potential future tramway construction in account so that the new building can accommodate trams in the future. 

Picture: Karin Widén, Västerås Stad