Introductory remarks by Alexander Nikolai

A portrait photograph of District Head Alexander Nikolai, smiling in a suit and white shirt.

Fig. 3: Alexander Nikolai, Chair of Leopoldstadt Municipal District Council (2nd district) © Astrid Knie

Dear residents of Leopoldstadt,

Dear residents of the neighbourhoods covered by the WieNeu+ 20+2 urban renewal programme,

Since the launch of WieNeu+ in our district we've been placing an even stronger focus on community projects to make our neighbourhood climate-proof, attractive to live in and fit for the future. The programme area, which encompasses parts of both Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau, is a special place — not only on account of its history, but above all thanks to the people who live and work here.

It's important to emphasise that urban renewal programmes only succeed if they actively bring local people on board. And that's precisely what WieNeu+ does. The "Grätzlmarie" scheme has already funded the implementation of lots of great ideas direct from the neighbourhood – from small-scale greening projects to community-building initiatives. And every single contribution shows just how much commitment and creativity there is here in our district. I'm especially pleased that the programme isn't just about building and energy-related issues, but also covers shared spaces. Greened inner courtyards, cool zones for hot summer days or new opportunities for local shops – they all make our neighbourhood a more pleasant place to live.

Another special focus is the Alliiertenviertel climate pioneer neighbourhood. Another special focus is the Alliiertenviertel "climate pioneer neighbourhood", where measures are piloted to show how we can actively prepare our urban districts to meet the challenges ahead. The Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood thus serves as a model for climate- and future-proof urban design.

The Grätzl 20+2 programme area is an impressive demonstration of what is possible when the municipal administration, experts and — first and foremost — local residents, all act in unison. Together we're making life in our district even pleasanter, which in turn will bring joy for generations to come.

With best regards,

Alexander Nikolai

Chair of Leopoldstadt Municipal District Council (2nd district)