In a recent commentary, Civita advisor Aslak Versto Storsletten argues for the need to downscale railway development projects outside of Greater Oslo. He points out that the crucial railway developments in Norway over the past 25 years have primarily focused on expanding the Greater Oslo area through various railway projects like Romeriksporten and Follobanen. These projects aim to connect densely populated regions, thereby extending the residential and labor market of Greater Oslo to include areas from Østfold, Vestfold, and parts of Buskerud and Innlandet.

Storsletten emphasizes that the completed and ongoing railway works, including double tracks to Tønsberg and ongoing expansions to Moss and Hamar, play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity among the largest cities in Norway as well as with Sweden. The future connectivity within Norwegian cities, such as Stavanger’s Jærbanen and Bergen’s Arnalokalen, supports the idea that railway infrastructure is critical in shaping urban landscapes and labor markets.

However, the suggestion to deprioritize railway development raises critical questions about the sustainability of such an approach, especially considering the importance of public transportation in reducing carbon footprints and managing urban sprawl. The ongoing discussions highlight a significant debate in Norway regarding infrastructure investments and urban planning priorities, particularly in the context of climate change and population growth.