Keller plans the future for Düsseldorf: strong finances and housing construction!

Keller plans the future for Düsseldorf: strong finances and housing construction!

The mayor of Düsseldorf, Dr. At a recent CDU event in Kaiserswerth, Stephan Keller confirmed his intention to run for office again in September. He highlighted the importance of sound fiscal policies that ensure the city's financial stability. With a forecast loss of 8 million euros in 2024, which is classified as a “red zero” given a total budget volume of 4.3 billion euros, Keller is optimistic. In previous years, however, Düsseldorf was able to record slight budget surpluses, while the city has reserves amounting to 700 million euros. This and the planned take-up of long-term loans for infrastructure projects without consumer loans should serve as a basis for a positive financial policy, such as Local office reported.

Keller emphasized the strength of Düsseldorf's economy and announced that the trade tax would not be increased, while a packaging tax would also not be introduced. He also plans to use artificial intelligence (AI) in administration to increase efficiency. A newly established task force is intended to help speed up processes for housing benefit applications and building permits.

Housing and infrastructure

One of Keller's central concerns is affordable housing. Its goal is to build a total of 8,000 new apartments by 2030, of which 4,000 will be on public land. In order to realize this, he is hoping for one billion euros in federal funding for various infrastructure projects in Düsseldorf. These funds could also be used for the new construction of the Theodor Heuss Bridge, which is to be built without a light rail route in order not to impair the aesthetics of the Düsseldorf bridge family.

Transport policy and mobility

Keller relies on pragmatic solutions in transport policy and announced the abolition of environmental lanes at the beginning of his election term. In addition, he plans to expand the cycle path network, taking the needs of drivers into account. Two cycle routes are to be implemented, and from January 2024 the new Rhine cycle will ensure a uniform and reliable timetable. Better coordination of rail and bus routes as well as the closing of gaps in service times should minimize the risk of delays. The improvements in local transport include barrier-free expansion, new vehicles and digital offers such as an on-demand service called “flexy”. Stephankeller notes.

Keller has also planned innovative concepts such as “after-work parking” and Smart Park&Ride to accommodate drivers. Further goals include the promotion of e-mobility, the establishment of fast charging stations and a target bicycle traffic share of 25% through the construction of cycle routes and cycle streets. In addition, large construction projects, fiber optic expansion and the maintenance of bridges and tunnels are identified as current challenges.

The strategy of Dr. Keller shows a clear commitment to the sustainable development of Düsseldorf and he aims to sustainably improve the quality of life in the city.