WiFi4EU stories: Interview with Mayor of Ladenburg, Germany

Nestled between Mannheim and Heidelberg, the German municipality of Ladenburg is rooted in history while looking at the future of digital and connectivity. The WiFi4EU team spoke with Mayor Stefan Schmutz to discuss how the Local Council is promoting Ladensburg’s cultural heritage through Wi-Fi and digital services.

The origin of the municipality dates back to Celtic and Roman ages, when Ladenburg gained the status of city (civitas) under Emperor Trajan. The thousands years of history are reflected in the diverse offering of cultural and social event in the municipality today. Thanks to the EUR 15,000 WiFi4EU voucher won during the second call, Mayor Schmutz is now planning to develop innovative digital services to allow citizens and tourists to fully enjoy the cultural offerings of the city.

After a consultation with the citizens, the Local Council of Ladenburg and the selected Wi-Fi installation company decided to install 9 hotspots outdoor and 2 indoor. The WiFi4EU hotspots are located in areas of the municipality most populated especially by young people. “We launched the network in July 2019 on a sunny afternoon”, said the Mayor, “we tried really hard to make it happen as soon as possible”.  The citizens have been informed of the launch of the network through not only local newspapers and social media, but also through the municipality’s app.

The app, called “Ladenburg Audioguide”, provides an overview of what the municipality has to offer. From digital tours of the old Roman town to information on restaurants, hotels, museums and health facilities, Ladenburg Audioguide has everything citizens and visitors need to navigate life in Ladenburg. “For example, if people need to book an appointment, they can choose date and time using our online service and thus avoid waiting in a row”, explained Mayor Schmutz .

The citizens of the municipality have responded positively to the creation of digital services and free internet access, and are now asking for more hotspots around Ladenburg. WiFi4EU is also allowing the European Union to reach closer to European citizens: “of course it’s a small step, but it’s an important one”, commented Schmutz .

After the application for a WiFi4EU voucher, the Mayor has been contacted by a number of neighbouring municipalities, curious to know more about how the programme works. Keen to encourage other municipalities to apply, Mayor Schmutz is an active member of the WiFi4EU Community. “The Community allow us to learn from each other. It is a good support, if you do not know how to start or implement WiFi4EU” concluded the Mayor.