SL to Resume Direct Bus Operations in Sigtuna and Upplands Väsby

Public transit in Sigtuna and Upplands Väsby will transition to direct regional operation for the first time in 30 years when the current contract with Transdev expires in 2029, Region Stockholm decided on Wednesday.

Region Stockholm Allocates Funds for Takeover

The regional traffic committee voted on Wednesday to allocate funds for the necessary investments required to bring the bus network into public hands. The decision targets new vehicle acquisitions and the procurement of software systems needed to run the operations directly.

Planning for the municipal takeover has been underway over the past year. SL and the regional traffic administration have worked on preparations to assume responsibility from Transdev, which currently operates the routes.

Political Agreement Behind the Shift

The move stems from an agreement negotiated by the Left Party in cooperation with the governing Center Coalition in Region Stockholm over the past four years, originally decided in September of last year.

Anna Sehlin (V), opposition regional councilor in Region Stockholm and member of the traffic committee, stated that it is good news for both passengers and staff that SL will now, for the first time in 30 years, operate bus traffic under its own management, calling it a first step toward a de-privatized public transport system thanks to the Left Party.

Sehlin pointed to improvements for workers and riders alike.

This is a big step toward a better work environment in public transport, and a more reliable service for passengers.

— Anna Sehlin (V)

The decision marks a distinct shift in regional transit policy, ending three decades of outsourced bus operations in those specific northern Stockholm municipalities as the 2029 expiration date approaches.