Vienna Unveils Its 110th Metro Station in Growing Hausfeld District
Vienna has expanded its urban transit network with the inauguration of a new metro station in the Oberes Hausfeld area, marking a significant milestone in the city's ongoing development. The station, located in a region previously characterized by open fields and greenhouses, now stands at the heart of a rapidly transforming residential district.
Until recently, the area surrounding the new station maintained a rural atmosphere, with agricultural land dominating the landscape. However, recent years have seen the emergence of new residential buildings, signalling the evolution of Oberes Hausfeld into a prominent urban extension. The new metro station is set to open to passengers on January 19, providing direct access to the developing neighborhood.
The station itself was originally constructed in 2013 as part of the U2 line expansion but remained inactive, with trains passing through without stopping. This approach allowed for efficient future integration without disrupting existing metro operations. Now fully operational and elevated with a central platform, the station is ready to serve the local community as it grows.
Early projections indicate that the first residents will move into the newly built apartments in February, with the district expected to eventually house approximately 8,000 inhabitants upon completion. The station's opening is anticipated to play a crucial role in supporting the area's accessibility, reducing dependence on private vehicles, and encouraging sustainable mobility from the outset.
In line with Vienna's commitment to integrated urban planning, the new station is complemented by modern amenities, including two secure bicycle garages. These facilities enable cyclists to park their bikes around the clock for a nominal fee, further promoting alternative transportation options for daily commuters.
The station carries the name Lina-Loos-Platz, becoming the city's first metro stop to feature both the first and last name of a female figure. The designation honors actress Lina Loos, reflecting Vienna's broader efforts to recognize notable women in public spaces. Although the actual Lina-Loos-Platz is still under development, future plans include the creation of a public square with abundant greenery, water features, and shaded areas, scheduled for completion by 2027.
The decision to construct the station in advance of large-scale residential development mirrors strategies used in previous urban expansions, such as the U2 line extension to Seestadt in 2013. By providing essential infrastructure ahead of time, city planners aim to ensure new residents have immediate access to public transportation, fostering sustainable growth and minimizing car use from the beginning of the neighborhood's life cycle.
This latest addition marks the 110th metro station in Vienna, a significant event as the city has not seen a new station since the southern extension of the U1 line in 2017. The next major expansions are scheduled for around 2030, with further extensions planned for the U2 and the introduction of the U5 line.
The ongoing transformation of Oberes Hausfeld and the activation of the Lina-Loos-Platz station illustrate Vienna's proactive approach to urban development, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with residential growth. As the district evolves from its agricultural roots into a vibrant urban quarter, the new metro station is poised to become a central hub for both current and future residents.