So ski tourists must be misled with an artificial traffic jam in Austria

On Saturday there is a ‘shift change’ in winter sports resorts: because many tourists avoid traffic jams on the motorway via surrounding roads and smaller municipalities, something special was devised in Austria, not far from the Swiss border: it started in Klostertal and in Bludenz a pilot test last Saturday, as reported by the Austrian broadcaster (ORF).

At the entrance to Bings, a traffic light was installed that automatically turned red again and again, creating an artificial traffic jam. Drivers’ navigation equipment must register this traffic jam and then advise them to stay on the main routes.

Additional information boards

However, the pilot test did not produce the desired effect, according to feedback from radio listeners. Someone reported: “Everything is in Bludenz, all streets and side streets are closed because they come from everywhere.” And another listener reported that motorists would abandon the highway despite the artificial traffic jam.

Not only congestion on the alternative routes due to heavy travel traffic: drivers also needed significantly more time in the morning on the motorway and motorway – in several directions.

They certainly expected more from the pilot test, ORF quotes Bludenz Mayor Simon Tschann as saying. Nevertheless, it is important to try to find a long-term solution to the traffic problems in Bludenz, but also in the Klostertal municipalities.

Additional signs should now ask drivers to stay on the motorway or motorway – even if there is a traffic jam.

Sources

(dsc)