75 percent of Josefstadt demand more green on Hauer-Platz!

75 percent of Josefstadt demand more green on Hauer-Platz!

Josef-Matthias-Hauer-Platz, 1080 Wien, Österreich - On March 25, 2025, it became known that Josef-Matthias-Hauer-Platz will be redesigned in Josefstadt. On the occasion of a comprehensive, district -wide survey, which took place from January 7 to February 21, 2025, the wishes of the residents were determined. A total of 21,221 district residents aged 16 and over were eligible to participate, of which 5,942, around 28 percent, took part in the survey. The results show a clear desire for more green areas and a more attractive cityscape. According to the results of the survey, 75 percent of the participants would like more trees and green spaces on the square, while 68 percent are demanding more drinking wells and 64 percent would like additional seating.

District head Martin Fabisch described the redesign of the Josef Matthias-Hauer-Platz as the largest project of the coming years. So far, the square has been an important traffic junction with around 4,000 cars every day. With the redesign, the space should not only be upgraded, but also attracted as a meeting point for young and old. The motto of the redesign is: "Streets instead of hup concerts and green instead of gray". These achievements are intended to help improve the urban climate and to increase the quality of life of the residents.

Details for redesign

The planned redesign of the Josef Matthias-Hauer-Platz is to be realized in 2026. The measures include the construction of a new two-direction bike path, the planting of eight new trees and the installation of a centrally placed fountain. Furthermore, a greening of the adjacent Albert and Skodagasse is also considered, where new benches and a drinking fountain are to be created.

context of the urban greenery

The importance of urban green is becoming increasingly obvious, especially in view of the global challenges of climate change. According to a master's thesis that deals with the effects of climate change and urban heat islands, an urban green infrastructure is essential to secure the living environment for city dwellers. The temperature increase in urban areas already has noticeable negative effects on people and the environment.

In order to meet these challenges, cities must take measures that not only improve the quality of stay in public space, but also promote social exchange. Experts emphasize the increasing importance of the street space as a place of communication and exchange. The public street space should therefore be freed from motorized traffic, especially parked vehicles, to create more freedom for social interactions.