Offenbach’s €38.5M dike expansion begins—with 190 trees removed for flood safety

A controversial trade-off: 190 trees will fall to fortify Offenbach’s dike against rising flood risks. But the city promises greener shores—and smoother traffic—by 2028.

, and Administrator

2025 November 11 . 3:05 PM

1 min read

In the picture there is a bridge across the river and on the bridge there are many street lights,... — In the picture there is a bridge across the river and on the bridge there are many street lights, in the background there are many buildings.

Offenbach’s €38.5M dike expansion begins—with 190 trees removed for flood safety

Offenbach's Main River dike expansion project enters a new phase. The city has secured €13 million from the state of Hesse towards the €38.5 million total cost. Construction begins in spring 2026, lasting around two and a half years, with at least one lane remaining open for vehicles and cyclists.

Preliminary work starts on November 17, 2023, paving the way for the final phase. Around 190 trees, including 120 along the dike's crest path, will be removed to install sheet piling and anchor systems for improved flood protection. Lane closures on Mainstraße are expected during the tree felling process, lasting about three weeks.

The city will create retention basins for floodwaters by removing additional trees east of Friedhofstraße. Once construction is complete, the dike will be replanted with more trees than before. The city has applied for increased financial support due to rising construction costs and design adjustments.

The Main River dike expansion in Offenbach's city center progresses, with construction set to begin in spring 2026. The project aims to enhance flood protection while minimizing disruption to traffic and cyclists. The city seeks additional funding to cover increased costs and design changes.