Hungarian Minister for Construction and Transport János Lázár revealed plans to construct a four-lane motorway stretching 40 kilometres to connect Szombathely with Körmend and Kőszeg by the decade’s end. During a joint press conference with Szombathely mayor András Nemény, Lázár outlined the details of this transformative infrastructure project, emphasizing the government’s commitment to regional development.
Lázár confirmed that the project’s construction plans, which carry a price tag of 5 billion forints, will be finalized by December this year. The necessary environmental permits are already in place, and the government has allocated 500 million forints this year and 1.5 billion forints next year for acquiring land needed for construction.
While acknowledging the significant challenge of securing the 200 billion forints required for the project, Lázár expressed confidence in the government’s ability to find solutions, stating: ‘We have ideas, and the government remains committed to moving forward.’
The government is open to a cooperative model for additional projects, such as the western bypass of Szombathely. This bypass, Lázár noted, would form part of the initial segment of the M87 motorway leading to Kőszeg.
Lázár highlighted the potential for industrial growth alongside the infrastructure upgrades. Szombathely boasts a 290–300 hectare industrial park near the proposed M87 motorway route—a rare asset in Hungary. The government aims to foster stronger ties between this industrial park and the Győr–Sopron–Ebenfurti Railways company (GYSEV), envisioning a logistics hub to complement existing successful collaborations in the region.
The minister also announced a significant expansion of GYSEV’s railway services in Vas, Győr–Moson–Sopron, and Veszprém counties. GYSEV will take over from MÁV in managing regional rail transport, promising high-quality service improvements.
Reflecting on past achievements, Lázár praised the government’s efforts in connecting Szombathely to the M1 motorway, a project that cost 192 billion forints. He attributed its success to the persistent lobbying of local Fidesz representatives, including MP Csaba Hende.
Mayor András Nemény emphasized the importance of maintaining cooperation with the government to ensure the realization of development plans despite economic challenges. ‘We want a city where jobs are secure, where residents can plan their futures, and where it’s worth living and raising families,’ Nemény said. He also stressed the need for Szombathely to become greener, more sustainable, and safer.
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