Chongqing—In 2024, Chongqing’s commitment to improving its residents' living conditions through urban renewal will be evident as the city significantly upgrades old communities, enhancing accessibility and quality of life for thousands. One standout example of this effort is the transformation of the Hongxingtingpo Community in Yuzhong District, which now boasts modern amenities like barrier-free elevators, creating a more accessible and convenient environment for elderly and disabled residents.

On December 10, the newly constructed barrier-free elevator is about to be put into use in Hongxingtingpo Community, Yuzhong District, Chongqing. (Photo/Luo Bin, Visual Chongqing)

The Hongxingtingpo Community, built in the 1980s and located on a steep hill, had long been a challenge for residents, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities. For years, elderly residents like 86-year-old Xiao Anzhi struggled with the community’s many stairs, making simple activities like shopping and visiting the doctor difficult. “We had to stop and rest multiple times on our way out,” Xiao explained. “Some elderly neighbors even stayed at home for over a week because it was too inconvenient to go out.”

Thanks to the recent renovations, which included adding five barrier-free elevators and constructing seven accessible ramps, Xiao now finds it much easier to go out. The renovations also included a new community activity center with reading areas, a space for assistive devices, recreational facilities, and plans to add vending machines and automated printing services. The community’s accessibility has greatly improved, with residents now able to move freely between different parts of the neighborhood and beyond, including to nearby parks.

On December 10, the barrier-free public restroom will be undergoing final finishing work in the Hongxingtingpo Community, Yuzhong District, Chongqing. (Photo/Luo Bin, Visual Chongqing)

This project is part of a larger citywide effort to modernize old urban areas. Since 2018, Chongqing has made significant progress in upgrading old communities, focusing on both essential infrastructure and services that enhance residents’ quality of life. More than 8,600 old communities have been renovated, covering an area of 192 million square meters and benefiting over 2 million households.

Chongqing Municipal Commission of Housing and Urban-Rural Development has extensively involved residents in the planning process. Through surveys and meetings, they ensure that the needs of the residents are central to the renovation plans. “We prioritize the safety and well-being of the residents,” said a representative. “This includes addressing the most basic needs like repairs to old pipelines and adding necessary safety features, as well as improving services like childcare and elderly care facilities.”

On December 10, residents passed through the newly built barrier-free passage in the Hongxingtingpo Community, Yuzhong District, Chongqing. (Photo/Luo Bin, Visual Chongqing)

In addition to physical upgrades, Chongqing is also focusing on enhancing community services. Over 9,400 facilities have been improved, including new parking spaces and more than 6,100 newly installed elevators. Furthermore, a significant portion of these renovations have been implemented through district-wide planning, ensuring that communities are updated and integrated into a broader urban development strategy.

The city plans to continue its ambitious renovation efforts, with over 1,000 additional communities scheduled for upgrades in 2025. The goal is to create more vibrant and accessible spaces for residents while fostering new business opportunities and improving overall quality of life.

On December 10, a barrier-free activity center was constructed to meet residents' daily leisure and entertainment needs was completed in Hongxingtingpo Community, Yuzhong District, Chongqing. (Photo/Luo Bin, Visual Chongqing)

Chongqing’s approach to urban renewal demonstrates a commitment to creating a more livable and sustainable city where modern conveniences meet the needs of all residents, regardless of age or ability. The city’s focus on both “hard” infrastructure and “soft” services reflects a balanced and comprehensive approach to urban development, ensuring that every citizen feels the benefits of these improvements.

(Liao Xuemei and Luo Bin, reporters from Chongqing Daily, contributed the Chinese version of this report.)