The German Federal Transport Infrastructure Plans (FTIPs) of 1992 and 2003 are, like their predecessors, a product of hierarchical joint decision making. Compared to previous plans, the Federal Government has curbed the role of the states. It has prioritized investments in the new (Eastern) states and, especially 2003, implemented a more flexible approach to fix the quotas for individual states. Negotiations with the states initially follow the fact-based "arguing" mechanism, changing into a predominantly politically motivated "bargaining" later on. The European level claims more competences in infrastructure planning by setting up Trans-European Networks and by financing projects through funds like EFRE. However, decisions are taken in consensus with member states. Party-related conflicts about FTIPs have increased, particularly within state governments. At the same time, state politics become more independent from the federal level. Environmental protection issues now play a more significant role in the FTIPs both with regard to the evaluation of projects and by getting relevant government agencies involved. However, ecological risks alone cannot cause the delisting of a project. The federal infrastructure planning follows the trend of enhanced transparency and participation, which has intensified with FTIP 2030 by inviting the general public to comment on the draft plan, and by using digital communication channels.