“A bridge to the future, you say?” a skeptical cyclist muttered, pausing at the Heuwegbrücke. “Looks more like a bridge to a traffic jam.” The Heuwegbrücke, spanning the Nahle river, has been a vital link between Leipzig’s Leutzsch and Möckern districts since 1962. This bridge, primarily used by pedestrians and cyclists, is a key route for recreation in the northern Auwald. Originally a reinforced concrete structure, the Heuwegbrücke began to show significant wear and tear over time. This necessitated a complete rebuild. In September 2023, a project began to replace the aging bridge with a modern, single-span steel arch structure. The new Heuwegbrücke is four meters wide. Unlike its predecessor, the new bridge has no pillars in the riverbed. This allows for better water flow during periods of high water levels. It also supports revitalization efforts in the surrounding floodplain. The project, costing 5.2 million euros, received 2.25 million euros in funding from the National Climate Initiative. This initiative, launched by the German government in 2008, supports projects that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While construction is underway, a temporary bridge allows for continued pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The project is expected to be completed by August 2025. The new Heuwegbrücke is more than just a crossing. It’s an investment in sustainable infrastructure and the future of Leipzig’s green spaces.
water tower Markkleeberg
From its perch overlooking Markkleeberg this water tower silently guards the town’s history. The Markkleeberg water tower stands tall a