The Icelandic government intends to attribute ISK 1 billion (USD 8.5 million, EUR 6.3 million) per year to reinforce public transport in the capital region in the next ten years. Minister of the Interior Ögmundur Jónasson stated the initiative will save vast sums of money for the community.

A Reykjavík bus. Photo by Páll Stefánsson.

A declaration of intent to that extent was signed by Jónasson, Minister of Finance Steingrímur J. Sigfússon and representatives of the Icelandic Roads Administration and local authorities in the capital region on Thursday, ruv.is reports.

The main goal is to double the use of public transport in the region. Iceland is behind neighboring countries in terms of public transport usage, more often than not Icelanders prefer private vehicles over buses.

Jónasson explained that the initiative includes all means of transport such as bicycles. In addition to the funds provided by the state, local authorities will also participate in the funding of the joint campaign.

The minister admits that the initiative is expensive but hopes that it will save significant amounts for the community in the long run.

ESA