Winthrop, the former sand-mining district south of Pilgrim, has experienced a real recession over the past 15 years. The reason for this is known to have been the management style of the district's administrator at the time, Vincent Kiesser. According to economic expert Hans Dogler, the administrator‘s working conditions and investments were particularly at fault. Incorrectly planned construction projects, excessively long working hours and commutes, as well as a lack of leisure activities and housing were the main reasons for the migration away from the once rapidly flourishing neighbourhood.
It has now been over 4 years, since Kiesser was destituted. His successor, Hildegard Bronner, announced the coalition's plan last Sunday to stabilise and strengthen
Winthrop again and to create an attractive neighbourhood for young, old, academics and workers alike.
Among other things, the plan envisages a generous expansion of the residential areas to the north, but also to the other side of the river to the west. The old glass-blowing factory, now in ruins, is to be rebuilt, in an attempt to restore at least partially the previous glory of the glass industry which thrived in
Winthrop. However, the industry should not be limited to the glass, mineral and sand trade.
In the past years, a rare white wood was discovered, which is not only very attractive as building material because of its unique qualities, but is also a particulary demanded material for the art scene as well as the music scene - they resonate in a particular manner, which no other material seems capable of. The cultural landscape of
Winthrop shall also not be forgotten. To this end plans are being made to set up a cultural fund for the neighbourhood.
The preparations for this arduous plan have already begun. But patience is required for the financial means of the small district are at this moment rather limited.