Zwischenbrücken: New local journalism project connects districts of Vienna!

Zwischenbrücken: New local journalism project connects districts of Vienna!

Something is happening in the colorful and diverse districts of Vienna's Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau. With his “Z Zwischenbrücken” initiative, Bernhard Odehnal has launched a new local journalism project that aims to take up stories and current topics from both districts. On the website, which went live back in March, Odehnal aims to reach around 200,000 residents with independent and connecting content. The native of Vienna, who has over 20 years of experience in “big” journalism, now wants to use “small” journalism to build bridges between social classes and cultural actors in his hometown.

But what exactly is “intermediate bridges”? It is a new online medium that deals with current debates, conflicts and trends in Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau. As part of this reporting, the aim is to publish a deeper story as well as various service articles about events, gastronomy and infrastructure projects every week. This approach not only reflects local events, but also creates a space for dialogue and exchange. The aim is to meet the desire for reliable reporting, which is increasingly emerging in times of fake news and superficial reporting, reports Die Presse.

A strong team for local stories

Odehnal has surrounded himself with a dedicated team that underlines the journalistic value of the project. One of the first employees is Naz Kücüktekin, who will work as a freelancer from the start. Furthermore, Ernst Schmiederer, former USA correspondent for “profil”, will portray people between the two districts. The photographer Christopher Mavric, known for his work for “Falter”, will also bring his creative perspective to the project.

This all happens under the premise that local journalism is more than just reporting – it is a bridge to strengthen community and present diverse perspectives. “Local journalism needs innovative approaches,” says a report by the CMC. This corresponds to Odehnal's vision, which focuses on good coexistence and exchange between the different layers of society.

Financing and prospects

The project is financed, among other things, through crowdfunding, which has already raised around 20,000 euros. Advertising and the possibility of voluntary subscriptions are intended to guarantee in the long term that “Z Zwischenbrücken” can stand on a solid financial foundation. If there is financial stability, another employee could even be hired to strengthen the team. An innovative approach that signals that there is room for local reporting even in times of digital disruption. The challenges are great, but so are the opportunities - as shown by the growing interest in local content and the call for more in-depth journalism.

With “Z Zwischenbrücken”, Vienna seems to have gained a new, fresh piece of cultural journalism that captures the special flavor of local life and at the same time focuses on important issues and needs of the population. The first steps have been taken and curiosity about the stories that need to be told is increasing.