Gries is set to become a climate-adapted leisure and recreation oasis

The Gries area is set to undergo significant revitalization in the coming years. At its meeting yesterday (July 1, 2026), the City Council decided to submit an expression of interest for the federal funding program “Adaptation of Urban and Rural Areas to Climate Change.” The goal is to secure federal funding for the planned redevelopment of the area on the eastern bank of the Saale River.

With this project, the city aims to develop the Gries into an attractive open space and recreational area that offers a high quality of life for visitors. Plans include, among other things, new seating areas, play facilities, additional trees and green spaces, as well as improved access for pedestrians and cyclists. Some sealed surfaces are to be unsealed and redesigned to be climate-resilient.

“These plans follow in the footsteps of the renovations already completed along the Saale riverbank. Following the redesign of the Landfeste and the Wenigenjena riverbank, the Gries is now also set to become a place that combines recreation, physical activity, and climate adaptation. More green space, additional trees, and new recreational amenities will noticeably improve the quality of life along the Saale River while also helping to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures in the city,” says Dirk Lange, Director of Urban Development and the Environment.

For the Environment, Climate, and Recreation

A particular focus is on developing a climate-resilient open space. Plans include new green islands and tree plantings that will improve the microclimate and contribute to biodiversity. In the future, rainwater will also be utilized more extensively on-site and channeled into the Saale via green spaces.

In addition, a paved multifunctional area is planned for part of the current parking lot, which can be used for various wheeled sports such as skateboarding, inline skating, scootering, and cycling. Children and teenagers have already been involved in the planning process. The area will also provide space for events such as festivals or flea markets.

In addition, a service building with public restrooms and a drinking water station is planned. It is intended to benefit cyclists and waterway travelers in particular and to strengthen the tourism infrastructure along the Saale River.

Costs and Funding Opportunities

The total costs for planning and construction are currently estimated at around three million euros. By applying for the federal program, the city is exploring an additional funding opportunity that would provide a grant covering up to 80 percent of eligible costs.

The expression of interest that has now been approved is the first step and does not yet entail any financial commitment. Only if the city is successfully selected by the federal government would it submit a formal application. The city council will decide on the specific planning and financing at a later date. Provided the funding is approved and financing is secured, construction could begin as early as 2028.