Vienna launches artificial turf offensive: Sustainability for all athletes!

Vienna launches artificial turf offensive: Sustainability for all athletes!

Something is happening in the area of ​​sports infrastructure in Vienna: On July 23, 2025, the starting signal was given for an ambitious artificial turf project in the Liesinger USZ Mauer. This is not only an important step towards modernizing the city's sports facilities, but also a first, because for the first time in Vienna an artificial turf pitch with an innovative infill made of corn granules is being used. sportsbusiness.at reports that This redesign is part of the comprehensive investment program “Sport.Wien.2030”, which will invest a total of 55 million euros by 2026 to modernize 29 locations.

The project at USZ Mauer not only includes the installation of two new artificial turf pitches, but also the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting. These technical innovations make it possible to train and play even in the dark - a welcome improvement for local teams and schools. Sports City Councilor Peter Hacker describes the project as a significant contribution to the quality of life in the city and underlines its importance for community cohesion.

Sustainability in focus

The decision to use corn granules as backfill material is evidence of environmentally conscious planning. The material is not only dust-free and odorless, but also absorbs less heat, making it particularly pleasant to walk on. As the city of Vienna emphasizes, alternative fillings such as cork and sand are also being considered to further increase ecological standards. Together with modern water storage systems, which will also be installed, the project will become a showcase for sustainability.

District leader Gerald Bischof emphasizes the sustainable added value of the project for the population. "Optimal conditions are created here for clubs, schools and recreational athletes, all year round. This is a great initiative for young talent - we are responding to the increasing demand here, especially from new teams, such as women's teams," explains Bischof.

Additional infrastructure improvement projects

But that's not all: a comprehensive modernization project is also underway at Jedlersdorfer Platz. wse.at reports from a new functional building that, in addition to an artificial turf pitch and a training field, also provides storage space and a new canteen area. The total budget for these measures is around 4.3 million euros, which also includes future projects such as the energy-saving LED floodlight system.

With these projects, Vienna is focusing on a sustainable and modern design of its sports infrastructure. The aim is to offer the various sports an optimal platform and at the same time reduce operating costs in the long term. Vienna is a pioneer in combining environmental protection and sporting development. This will not only make the city's sporting landscape more diverse, but also more sustainable.