Magdeburg January 2026: A Month in Focus

Education, Climate, and Finances in Focus

What was important this month

• Renovation of the FÖSG "Hand in Hand" with photovoltaics and a soccer court
• Budget deficit of 51.67 million EUR due to rising costs
• Masterplan "100% Climate Protection" is being implemented
• Construction of the new fire station in Rothensee decided
• Social ticket for Otto-City-Card holders launched
• Construction work on the bridges of the Magdeburg Ring planned

Education and Schools: Investments and Adjustments

In the field of education, important investment decisions were made in January 2026. The renovation of the FÖSG "Hand in Hand" was approved with a budget of 18.7 million EUR for the years 2027 to 2029. The new building will not only be barrier-free, but will also be equipped with a photovoltaic system and a soccer court – an investment in sustainability and physical activity.

At the same time, the founding of a new secondary school on Westring 30/32 was abandoned. Instead, the community school "Oskar Linke" will be relocated to this site. This reflects a strategic re-planning of the education system to use resources more efficiently.

A calculation model for the even distribution of students was decided for the school districts of 2027/28. This should help avoid overloads and ensure the quality of education.

Finances and Budget: Challenges and Solutions

The 2026 budget showed a deficit of 51.67 million EUR, making it a challenging year. Main reasons are rising costs in bridge construction and in the social sector. At the same time, a pilot phase for the social ticket was launched, which is in effect for Otto-City-Card holders until March 2027 – with costs of 38.26 million EUR.

To stabilize the funding, the share of federal funding for GTA II measures was kept at 70%, while local funds cover the remaining 30%. This shows how Magdeburg is using state support strategically to enable investments in education, sport, and infrastructure.

In addition, the entertainment tax regulation was revised, resulting in additional revenues of 575,000 EUR starting in 2026. These additional funds can be used for future projects.

Climate Protection and Environment: Progress and Discussions

In the field of climate and environment, Magdeburg is focusing on sustainability. The Masterplan "100% Climate Protection" is being continued, and the report was approved. At the same time, a partial renaturation of the Winterhafen was discussed to create more green areas.

Ecological aspects also took center stage in discussions on changes to zoning plans. Discussions on biodiversity and community gardens showed how much the city wants to protect its natural resources.

However, a proposal to revise the regulations on green roofs and façades was postponed, showing that not all climate-friendly ideas can be implemented immediately.

Overview: Investments for the Future

Magdeburg is not only investing in education and infrastructure, but also in a sustainable future. With a focus on renovations, financial stability, and climate protection, the city is on the path to greater resilience and sustainability. The implementation of many projects will become visible in the coming years.

Outlook: What's coming?

In February, the discussion on the expansion of cultural ticket offers will continue, and further details on digitization in the city hall will be announced. In addition, town hall meetings are planned in several districts, which will directly involve citizens in the decision-making process.

Magdeburg continues on course – with a view to the future and the needs of its citizens.