Adapting the urban environment to the effects of climate change is a key priority for the future of Mainz, the state capital. Sealed surfaces contribute significantly to the urban heat island effect. They prevent rainwater from naturally infiltrating the ground and place a strain on the sewer system. At the same time, densely built-up neighborhoods often lack sufficient green spaces and recreational areas.

For this reason, the state capital of Mainz plans to remove paving at several locations in the city center and subsequently plant greenery there. The following areas have been selected as the first measures: the former fire department access road on Barbarossaring, the sidewalk at the corner of Kaiserstraße and Boppstraße, the sidewalk at the corner of Altenauergasse and Hintere Christofsgasse, Balthasar-Maler-Platz, the sidewalk at the corner of Holzhofstraße and Schönbornstraße, parking spaces on Reichklarastraße, and parking lanes on Neubrunnenstraße.

The changes are only selective and small in scale. The scope for planning is very limited due to the large number of issues that need to be taken into account.

All citizens can find out more via the social media account of the state capital Mainz, the press, and the list of projects. Suggestions and comments received will be reviewed by the city administration. In areas where businesses and residents are particularly affected, direct communication will take place.

Mainz Old Town and Mainz New Town

The unsealing measures are to be implemented in the second half of 2026.

The costs will be determined during further planning. Funding (80% of eligible costs) has been secured for the measures.

Plans are currently being made to determine which sealed areas can be unsealed. The work will then be put out to public tender in order to find suitable companies to carry it out.