Quality initiative infrastructure development

The objective of this activity was the elaboration of decision-making bases for the improvement and development of the waterside infrastructure under the responsibility of viadonau (public berths, viadonau owned properties, other hydraulic structures, etc.). In the course of the activity baseline information was gathered, analysed and a variety of maps, individual thematic studies as well as summarising development concepts were prepared.

• For example, the structural condition of the bollards and mooring arrangements on the public berths along the Austrian Danube was assessed. For that purpose, tensile tests were conducted which revealed deficiencies at several berths. The restoration of these public berths is part of an individual infrastructure project.
• In order to increase transparency concerning the public berths along the Austrian Danube sector that are available for usual, operational purposes of cargo and passenger vessels (e.g. resting periods, staff changes, shore leaves), a corresponding register of berths was compiled in German and English language and published on the viadonau website. The list contains information such as the location and lenght of the berth, specific regulations or the maximum mooring times. The list is updated at least quarterly. 
• A detailed survey of the berths (and their surrounding areas) in Linz and Vienna was conducted. Information was gathered regarding the constructive design of the respective berths (inclined or vertical bank construction), their integration into the public transport network or their proximity to shopping facilities, etc. This information was complemented by photographs.
  In Vienna, an additional usage and utilisation analysis  of the 10 (meanwhile 11) berths for cargo and passenger vessels was made. This involved the monitoring of the occupancy rate and duration of use over a period of two years (2014-2016). The analysis revealed a more extensive use of the berths in the central area of Vienna compared to the ones in peripheral locations. The decisive factors in the choice of a berth are the proximity to the city centre and the public transport network as well as the constructive design of the berth. A vertical river bank construction is usually preferred over an inclined construction. The analysis of the berth occupancy rate in Vienna also revealed a medium-term need for additional berths.