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Budget approval is expected in August
Darmstadt. The coalition of the Greens, CDU, and Volt, along with the SPD, has reached an agreement on the Medium-Term Investment Programs (MIP) for 2025 and 2026. This creates the conditions for the swift implementation of the 2025/26 biennial budget. The Darmstadt Regional Council had already given a positive assessment of the operating budget before the summer holidays, but had requested a reduction in the investment amounts to €75 million each year.
In several meetings, the investment projects were adjusted to the given financial framework. On August 13, the city council voted in favor of the MIP (Minimum Investment Program) for both years in a special session. Budget approval by the regional government is expected later in August.
Planned investments and priorities
These decisions will enable the implementation of projects in the areas of education, sports, infrastructure, and digitalization. These include, among others:
- New construction of a daycare center at Marienplatz
- Construction of a gymnasium to secure the range of sports activities
- Road and bridge renovation
- New construction and renovation of schools and daycare centers
- Expansion of digital infrastructure and administrative processes
Before granting approval for 2026, the regional government authority requires the 2025 annual financial statement, which must demonstrate that the global spending reduction target of €30 million was met. According to treasurer André Schellenberg, this statement should be available by February.
Flexible use of funds
According to the parliamentary groups, the MIP (Management Investment Program) has been adapted to reflect real-world conditions and includes the possibility of transferring investment funds across departments within the program. This flexibility is intended to allow for short-term adjustments.
City officials also emphasize the importance of sufficient financial resources from the federal and state governments. They demand that at least 77 percent of promised investment funds be passed directly to the municipalities.
The adopted investment programs are intended to secure the financial stability of the science city of Darmstadt and at the same time lay the foundation for future projects.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM)
