Cologne News
news
Cologne faces major disruptions as the Deutzer Bridge undergoes emergency repairs, causing severe traffic congestion across the city until June 21. The city council approves a €150 million flood prevention plan following last winter's Rhine overflow. Police report a 20% drop in pickpocketing incidents in the Altstadt after implementing new surveillance measures.
Business News
Cologne's media and tech sector grows by 8% this quarter, with over 500 new jobs created at the MediaPark complex. The Cologne/Bonn Airport reports record passenger numbers, handling 15 million travelers so far in 2025. Local breweries struggle with rising barley prices, prompting fears of beer price hikes before the summer festival season.
Election News
With state elections approaching, polls show the Greens leading at 32% in Cologne, ahead of the CDU (28%) and SPD (22%). Controversy erupts over allegations of improper campaign financing involving two local candidates. The election office introduces mobile voting stations to increase accessibility for elderly and disabled voters.
Political News
The city council votes to pedestrianize parts of the historic center, drawing mixed reactions from businesses and residents. Cologne joins a coalition of German cities suing the federal government over inadequate refugee funding. Mayor Henriette Reker faces criticism for delayed implementation of the city's climate action plan.
Employment News
Cologne's unemployment rate drops to 5.8%, with the strongest job growth in healthcare (1,200 new positions) and IT (900 new positions). The Arbeitsagentur launches a special program to help Ukrainian refugees find work in Cologne's growing tech sector. Trade unions secure 5.8% wage increases for 30,000 public sector workers after months of negotiations.
Markets
Cologne's housing market shows signs of cooling, with prices stabilizing after years of rapid growth. The Neumarkt shopping district reports a 12% increase in foot traffic as tourism rebounds. Commercial rents in the Belgisches Viertel rise 7% due to high demand from creative agencies.
7 Day Forecast Forecast Starting Today (June 24, 2025)
Today: Sunny, 24°C-31°C, light breeze
Tomorrow: Partly cloudy, 22°C-29°C
Monday: Thunderstorms likely, 20°C-26°C
Tuesday: Showers, 19°C-25°C
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, 21°C-28°C
Thursday: Clear skies, 23°C-30°C
Friday: Cloudy, 22°C-27°C
Entertainment News
The Cologne Philharmonic announces its 2025/26 season featuring world premieres by three German composers. Local band BAP celebrates its 50th anniversary with a free concert at the Rheinpark. The Stadtgarten cultural center reopens after renovations with an expanded jazz program.
Upcoming Events
Summerjam Reggae Festival - July 5-7 at Fühlinger See
FC Köln season opener - August 10 at RheinEnergieStadion
Kölner Lichter fireworks - July 13 along the Rhine
Chocolate Museum 30th anniversary celebration - August 15-17
Cologne Fine Art fair - September 10-14 at Koelnmesse
RheinEnergie Marathon - October 5 citywide
Christmas Markets - November 24-December 23 at multiple locations
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