Saturday, January 25, 2025 On December 20, 2024, the Romanian city of Reșița marked a significant milestone in its urban transport history as trams returned to service after a 13-year hiatus. This revival not only restores a crucial public transport option but also underscores the successful utilization of EU funding to modernize infrastructure and improve urban mobility. The Reșița tramway, originally inaugurated in 1988, ceased operations in August 2011 due to deteriorating infrastructure and rolling stock, which the city could no longer afford to maintain.
The original line extended from RENK in the north to Stavila in the east, covering a comprehensive network. However, financial constraints and declining ridership led to its closure. A turning point came in 2019 when city officials secured funding through the EU’s Regional Operational Programme 2014-20, enabling them to initiate rehabilitation efforts.
Austria’s Porr was awarded a 268m lei contract in April 2022, covering extensive upgrades, including tracks, stops, depots, power systems, and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. These investments reflect a broader commitment to sustainable and integrated urban transport solutions. The revamped tram service now operates along a 9 km route connecting Kaufland in the north to Reșița-Montana in the southeast.
While the outer sections of the original line remain closed, the renewed route provides efficient and reliable transport, with a journey time of 30 mi.
