Bergbahnen St. Johann Says Construction Of The New Jodlalm Gondola Lift By 2026 Is Realistic

The St. Johann cable cars are taking a decisive step toward modernizing their ski area: At the general meeting of the St. Johann cable cars association, Managing Director Michael Gritsch presented the "Jodlalm Neu" project. The plan is to replace the oldest facility in the ski area, the 2-seater chairlift built in 1981, with a state-of-the-art 10-seater gondola.

Top priority for an important connection

"This new construction is a top priority. The Jodlalm cable car is a central connection between Eichenhof, Harschbichl, and Oberndorf," emphasizes Michael Gritsch. The current facility is considered a bottleneck, causing bottlenecks, especially after the expansion of the Eichenhof lifts.

Technical details and advantages

The new valley station will be built at Pointenhof at 990 meters above sea level – a location that also ensures reliable snow. With a capacity of 2,000 passengers per hour and a travel time of just seven to eight minutes to the Harschbichl (1,603 meters), the modern gondola lift will contribute significantly to the efficiency of the ski area. The route will be extended by approximately 300 meters, as the mountain station will be located directly next to the Harschbichl Alm.

The cable car also offers first-class comfort: "The gondola will be weather-independent and will allow the transport of bikes, strollers, and wheelchairs," explains Michael Gritsch. Furthermore, the project promises to smooth out visitor flows and improve downhill options in both directions.

Challenges and schedule

The next steps for the project include the submission of documentation and financing discussions in 2025. The cost of the new construction is estimated at €22 to €24 million. Once all permits are obtained, construction is planned for 2026, with commissioning in winter 2026/27.

Shared responsibility for the future

TVB Chairman Josef Grander emphasizes the need for modernization: "The mountain railways and the region need new impetus. The TVB supports the project as a shareholder and has set aside reserves for these investments."

The new Jodlalm gondola marks an important milestone for the future of the St. Johann ski area and is intended to sustainably increase the attractiveness of the region.