The project has now been revised according to the advanced state of technology and the layout of the line has been altered in order to minimize effects on ground water.

A ground-breaking ceremony was held at Gloggnitz on April 25, 2012 to officially launch preliminary construction works for the 27.3 km Semmering Base Tunnel. Opening is planned for 2030. The EUR3·1bn base tunnel between Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag