Leipzig completes 25-year Elstermühlgraben waterway project

Leipzig has officially completed the uncovering of the Elstermühlgraben, marking the end of a 25-year urban development and water management project. The final 180-meter section, which cost over six million euros, has been opened to boat traffic, creating a new waterway between the city center and the Weiße Elster river. This connection potentially allows for a water route extending toward Halle.

In addition to the waterway, the project included the restoration of the Poniatowski Monument, which commemorates the Polish Prince Józef Poniatowski. The monument was unveiled during a ceremony attended by Leipzig Mayor Burkhard Jung and Saxon Minister for Economic Affairs Dirk Panter. The project is intended to serve multiple purposes, including climate adaptation, flood protection, and boosting local water tourism.