Bydgoszcz miasto nad wodą

The city of Bydgoszcz and its surrounding settlement have been tied to the Brda River since the 11th century. In 1346, a town was established on the river, which quickly became a big river port. Bydgoszcz was known across Poland for its trade in grains, mainly with Gdańsk. In 1772, after the takeover of the city by Prussia, works started on construction of the Bydgoszcz Canal connecting the Odra with the Vistula through the Noteć and Brda rivers. The canal stimulated growth of the city, and the Brda River became an urbanization axis. Development of railroads in the second half of the 19th century made possible optimal utilization of both means of transport: water and railroads. During that period, water transportation involved primarily shipping of timber, which was processed in the Bydgoszcz sawmills. In 1920, Bydgoszcz was incorporated to Poland, which led to the change in direction of water transportation, from east - west to north - south. Failure to adjust to the direction of navigation led to gradual, systematic drop in shipping by the river. Plans related to modernization or construction of a new canal were not implemented. Therefore, in the late 20th century navigation disappeared on the Bydgoszcz Canal, and the canal became a historic site. The Bydgoszcz Canal, the Brda River and nearby areas had been heavily degraded. These days, Bydgoszcz does not take advantage of its proximity to the river and canal. There are revitalization plans for riverside areas, mainly brownfield redevelopment, which are partially implemented. The canal and river are promoted for the purposes of water tourism, recreation and cultural activities. Bydgoszcz should be linked to water as the water capital of Poland