Offenbach looks back – Highlights and developments in February 2026

Offenbach in the spotlight – what happened in February 2026

What was important this month

• Meals allowance in kindergartens is increased: Starting in August 2026, the monthly meals allowance will be set at 110 euros.
• Framework decision for the German Leather Museum: The renovation and new concept of the museum, with costs exceeding 42 million euros, was approved.
• Construction projects in Bieber-Nord: Infrastructure works and changes to the zoning plan were accelerated and financially secured.
• Youth welfare committee is expanded: Parent councils and other institutions are given greater influence.
• Initiation of a small garden development plan: Associations and private garden owners will be included in the planning process.
• Gravel extraction and the future of the bath lake: A feasibility study for a new bathing area south of the L3117 has been launched.

Culture and museums: The revival of the German Leather Museum

In February 2026, a milestone was reached for Offenbach's cultural landscape: The framework decision for the renovation and new concept of the German Leather Museum was passed. With a total budget of 42.6 million euros, including 250,000 euros from the federal government, 500,000 euros from the state, 20 million euros expected from the federal government, 10 million euros expected from the state, and 11.85 million euros in credit market funds, it is the largest cultural project in the city's history.

The renovation will not only include structural renewal, but also a modern museum concept with interactive exhibitions and regional as well as international networking. The Committee for Culture, Education, Sports, and Sibling City Partnerships approved the initiative, with realization competitions according to RPW 2013 also planned.

This is a signal for Offenbach's cultural future and shows how investments in museums can also generate economic impulses.

Kindergarten fees and youth welfare: More transparency and participation

Another focus of the month was the adjustment of the contribution regulations for kindergartens. As of August 1, 2026, the meals allowance will be increased to 110 euros per month, following discussions with independent and religious operators as well as the subcommittee on meals allowance.

Furthermore, it was decided to expand the youth welfare committee with advisory members. The City School Parents' Council, City Kindergarten Parents' Council, School Office Leadership, and Operations Management of the municipal kindergarten enterprise will now play a stronger role in decision-making processes. This is a step toward greater participation and transparency in child and youth welfare.

Construction and urban development: New paths in Bieber-Nord and Strahlenbergerstraße

Construction and urban development progressed significantly in February. Particularly prominent was the development of the Bieber-Nord building site, where the project budget was increased by nearly 2.3 million euros to 20.78 million euros. The cost increase is mainly due to construction price developments and additional services.

In addition, a resolution was passed on the amendment of zoning plan No. 645 "Strahlenbergerstraße Ost". The planned district will be a mixed-use area with residential, commercial, and social infrastructure. The area is approximately 3.3 hectares, and the ABG Frankfurt Holding is named as the project sponsor.

The expansion of the forest zoo is also a key focus. The city council requested an area expansion, accompanied by a construction cost subsidy of up to 500,000 euros and an annual subsidy until 2035. This is another step toward improving animal welfare and making the zoo visit more attractive for families.

Cross-Topic: From the museum to the kindergarten – Offenbach invests in the future

February 2026 shows: Offenbach is investing in culture, education, infrastructure, and sustainability. The renovation of the leather museum, the expansion of the forest zoo, and the adjustment of kindergarten fees are examples of long-term planning and social responsibility. At the same time, urban development is being accelerated without losing sight of ecological and social aspects.

The new small garden development plan is another example of participatory planning, in which citizens are included in the process. This is a central trend in municipal politics and a sign of democracy at the grassroots level.

Conclusion and outlook

February 2026 was a month of clear decisions, investments, and planning steps in Offenbach. The city shows that it is not only responsible for the present but also for the future. The renovation of the leather museum, the adjustment of kindergarten fees, the construction projects in Bieber-Nord, and the small garden development are milestones that are guiding Offenbach in the right direction.

What remains is the continuation of this work in March. The city will continue to focus on culture, education, sustainability, and citizen participation. Offenbach is in motion – and in the right direction.