Urban Regeneration and Transformation
Regensburg puts urban regeneration at the heart of its urban development strategy. Through the ‘R_NEXT: Resilient City’ project, the city is transforming problem areas into improved, more resilient spaces. Project examples include the Neupfarrplatz Climate Laboratory, which conducts microclimate analysis, the installation of modular green urban furniture in Obermünsterviertel and Alter Kornmarkt, and soil moisture measurement at the city’s horticultural office. These projects are accompanied by data- and sensor-based impact assessments, enabling to learn which measures are effective for the subsequent urban transformation. One particular highlight of the initiative is the PlayFountain at Neupfarrplatz, installed every summer since 2023, which offers families and children a quick and welcome way to cool down, while also serving as a free attraction that brings life to the square and thereby supports the surrounding shops. Another ‘R_NEXT: Urban Space Living Lab’ project has introduced adaptive lighting in Dörnbergpark, using an AI-controlled system that adjusts the lighting based on real-time movement and environmental data. Minimal base lighting ensures reduced energy consumption and lower light pollution. Solar modules and battery packs enable sustainable, off-grid operations.
To further raise awareness of sustainable development, the city has developed a tour and quiz focusing on the UN Sustainable Development Goals and invites locals to participate in such initiatives as the Sustainability Week and the Volunteer Card, which foster collaboration between the city and its tourism-related businesses.
Implementing digital technologies
Regensburg is taking advantage of the latest digital innovations, as demonstrated by the GenAI chatbot on its tourism website. This project is aimed at visitors and potential guests by offering around-the-clock access to personalised recommendations and support with trip planning, information on local events, and real-time weather updates. This not only enhances the user experience, but also significantly reduces the staff workload by automating repetitive queries. Since the chatbot’s introduction, the city has seen an increase in digital brochure downloads, leading to a reduction in the demand for printed materials. Employees can also see a difference – phone and email enquiries have dropped by 10-15%, as the chatbot handles around 150,000 interactions per month.
Blending History and Innovation in Culture
Regensburg’s rich cultural history has earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status, enabling it to protect its heritage while embracing new opportunities. Events such as the ‘Re.Light Light Art Festival’ transform the historic cityscape into an open-air gallery. Large-scale light installations connect modern artistic expression with centuries-old buildings, attracting thousands of visitors and encouraging them to extend their stays during the off-season. As part of its tourism seasonality mitigation strategy, the city has implemented a broader cultural initiative called ‘Kulturkick’, developed in partnership with the Department of Culture, local hotels, restaurants, and creative event planners. Events such as the ‘Sparks & Visions Jazz Festival’, the culinary festival ‘Culture Bites’, and concerts create a consistent cultural rhythm throughout the year and support the city’s goal of year-round tourism.
