Düsseldorf in Focus: Monthly Review February 2026

Finances in Focus: Budget and Investments

What was important this month:

• The 2026 budget was increased by 440,000 EUR for digitalization.
• Major investments in digital infrastructure, including AI-assisted form assistants.
• Staffing costs will be reduced by 42.4 million EUR by 2029.
• The funding for additional social security will be lowered from 7.75% to 7.00%.
• The city is saving costs by employing its own cleaning staff instead of external service providers.

Education and Schools: New Buildings and Expansion Plans

In February, key measures were taken to shape the educational landscape of Düsseldorf. The construction of the new Leibniz-Montessori-Gymnasium with a budget of 26.86 million EUR was decided. The project includes not only new rooms, but also a long-term investment in equipment and annual follow-up costs. Additionally, the Max-Weber-Vocational College will be expanded from two to three tracks without additional costs. Moreover, the renaming of the Gymnasium Bernburger Straße to Elisabeth-Selbert-Gymnasium aims at creating a gender-sensitive and modern educational landscape.

Climate and Environment: Reversal of Cuts and Planning for Earth Hour 2026

Climate protection remains a central focus in Düsseldorf politics. The Committee for Environment, Climate, and Consumer Protection decided to reverse cuts in the Climate Protection Program 2035. Additionally, Earth Hour will take place on March 28, 2026, under the motto "We’re Turning It Off!" The city plans to report on the activities in the press and online to raise awareness for climate protection.

Digitalization and Administration: Investments in the Future

In the field of digitalization, the city is focusing on innovations. The expansion costs for the Urban Data Platform were approved with 300,000 EUR. In addition, an AI-assisted form assistance system and a proactive status tracking system in the service portal will be introduced. Video counseling and self-service terminals will be set up with 30,000 EUR. However, the Digital Pact 2026 was rejected by a clear majority – a signal of the Council's current stance on digital topics.

Social Affairs and Integration: Support for Projects and Language Courses

In the area of social affairs and integration, several projects were supported. A decision was made to establish 19 low-threshold language courses with a budget of 100,000 EUR. In addition, 14 municipal committees received informed citizens from non-EU countries. Topics such as anti-racism and sustainability were set as priorities for 2027. In several districts, subsidies for cultural and social projects were approved – including the "Butterfly Festival 2026."

Connections and Trends

A noticeable picture emerges: The city is investing in education and digitalization while at the same time striving for financial discipline in the budget. At the same time, climate protection is receiving more attention, although not all political switches are set in the same direction. The rejection of the Digital Pact shows possible skepticism towards centralized digital initiatives. At the same time, investments are being made locally and at the district level – an indication of the importance of participation and regional identity.

Outlook: What's coming in March?

March will see the continuation of the budget discussions in addition to Earth Hour. The planned four-week closure of the Rhine bank tunnel will be closely monitored, as will the progress in the redesign of Königsallee. In addition, the Disability Council may provide further recommendations on inclusion and barrier-free city planning.