BVR to Take Over Four Community Bus Networks in North Rhine-Westphalia by 2026

Busverkehr Rheinland GmbH (BVR), a subsidiary of DB Regio, will soon take over as the licensed operator for four community bus associations in North Rhine-Westphalia. The change comes after Stadtwerke Krefeld (SWK) decided to step back from the role due to rising costs. The handover is set for July 1, 2026, following ongoing contract discussions.

Community bus services in the region have seen growing demand. In 2025, ridership rose by nearly nine percent compared to the previous year. These buses play a key part in local transport, often supporting events like Mein Fest and market days in Schiefbahn.

Under German law, community bus associations must operate under a licensed provider, usually a public transport company. SWK had previously managed the services in Willich and St. Tönis but will no longer do so. BVR will now oversee the Schiefbahn association, along with three others, from mid-2026.

Passengers are unlikely to notice major changes in daily operations. The transition aims to maintain service levels while ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

The shift to BVR marks a new phase for the community bus networks. The operator change will take effect on July 1, 2026, with contracts currently in their final stages. Ridership growth and local event participation highlight the service's importance in the region.