New life on the Danube Canal: greenery and promenade for everyone!

New life on the Danube Canal: greenery and promenade for everyone!

The redesign of the center of the Danube Canal in Vienna is taking more concrete form after the comprehensive concept of MA 45 - Vienna Waters Department was presented on March 27, 2025. The aim of the redesign is to establish the Danube Canal as a multifunctional space that counteracts climate change and at the same time increases the quality of stay for citizens. Markus Figl, the district leader of the inner city, described the measures as an important project to create a low-threshold recreational and green space for the neighborhood. The Danube Canal is to be upgraded with the motto “DOKA becomes WOW”.

The planned measures will include a clear structure, additional greenery and improved infrastructure, although no additional catering establishments are planned. Construction work on the approximately 300 meter long section between Salztor Bridge and Marien Bridge has already begun and is scheduled to be completed this year. The entire area covers an area of ​​4,600 square meters, of which around 1,200 square meters are to be converted into green spaces.

New green spaces and places to stay

As part of the redevelopment, new trees will be planted, including three large plane trees and several elm trees. A total of nine new trees will be added, which will increase ecological diversity in the area. The creation of lounge areas with seating and other facilities such as four mist steles and two drinking fountains is intended to make the space more attractive to linger. The separation of bicycle and pedestrian traffic with a four-meter-wide path also ensures greater safety and comfort.

Innovative elements, such as a new guidance system for better orientation along the waterfront promenades, will also be introduced. New public toilet facilities with a fresh graffiti design are also included in the plan, as are contactless, free sunscreen dispensers, which are already available. These elements are intended to help increase the quality of stay along the Danube Canal and make the space more inviting for all users.

The role of urban greenery

The redesign of the Danube Canal is part of a broader discussion about the importance of urban greenery in urban development. Urban greenery not only improves the urban climate, but also increases the quality of living and has positive effects on the physical and mental health of residents. This development is necessary as many cities struggle with a lack of strategically planned and sustainable green spaces. With the aim of making the city even more livable, the importance of urban green spaces is increasingly being recognized. The project to make the Danube Canal more attractive could serve as an example for other cities to implement new forms of urban greenery and thus improve quality of life, health and the general living environment.

However, the upcoming measures are only the beginning. The redesign of a further 200 meter long area on the Aspern Bridge is already planned for 2026. There, wooden decks are planned directly on the quay wall, and the equipment will be adapted to the new right bank promenade. This continuous development of the Danube Canal shows the city's long-term vision to redefine this urban space and meet the demands of modern city life.

Overall, the redesign of the Danube Canal will not only change the landscape, but also contribute to strengthening social interaction in the city. The city of Vienna, its citizens and visitors can look forward to future developments on the Danube Canal.