Chongqing - Chongqing has surpassed its 2024 urban green infrastructure targets, with major improvements in street green spaces and mountain city greenways. These projects are part of an initiative to create safer, greener, and more comfortable spaces for residents.

Earlier this year, the city set goals to improve 1 million square meters of green spaces on the street and build 100 kilometers of greenways. Well ahead of schedule, Chongqing has completed 102 street green space projects covering 1.2 million square meters and built 119 kilometers of greenways.

An aerial view of the creatively designed Huangjue Jiyi Slope Park in Chongqing Dadukou District on December 16. (Photo/Li Yuheng, Visual Chongqing)

Connecting nature and culture through greenways

Chongqing’s mountain city greenways have become a distinctive feature of the urban landscape, connecting natural beauty with cultural heritage. One notable section connects Baren Jishui Park and Gaojia Huayuan, featuring a waterfall, pond, and banyan tree, offering scenic views while linking cultural landmarks, including the art gallery of famed artist Xu Beihong.

These greenways offer continuous pedestrian and cycling routes, enhancing connectivity between parks, residential areas, and tourist attractions while promoting ecological preservation, leisure, and cultural tourism. "The greenways reflect local nature and history, offering a functional and engaging experience," said Liao Congquan, an official of Chongqing Urban Management Bureau.

On the Baren Jishui Park to Gaojia Huayuan section of the mountain city greenway in Chongqing Jiangbei District, citizens relax and enjoy leisure activities by the riverside on December 11. (Photo/Li Yuheng, Visual Chongqing)

Upgrading street green spaces

In addition to greenways, the city has focused on upgrading its street green spaces. A prime example is the renovation of the Beibin Road Yangpaoju section, covering approximately 300 square meters. Previously an area of neglected land, this space has been transformed into a vibrant, colorful urban oasis.

Liao highlighted the importance of street green spaces as integral components of the city’s ecological system. These spaces, often located at busy intersections or roundabouts, have been redesigned to improve both aesthetic appeal and environmental function. In the Beibin Road project, ecological measures were introduced, including using water-tolerant plants.

“We’ve also incorporated artistic landscaping techniques to upgrade street greenery and create more interactive, visually engaging environments,” Liao added.

Child-friendly urban green spaces

A unique aspect of the city's urban greening efforts is its focus on creating child-friendly environments. At the intersection of Jingwei Avenue and Huangyang Road in Yuzhong District, a new green space features equipment designed for young children, including swings, rocking chairs, and a low-height game wall. This space fosters an interactive and safe environment for families.

“We’ve introduced '1-meter-high' design elements, ensuring spaces are accessible and engaging for children,” said Liao. This approach reflects the city's broader commitment to creating spaces that serve both young and elderly residents.

The Lijia Mountain City Greenway in Chongqing Liangjiang New Area offers picturesque views as citizens step outside to enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm sunshine on December 16. (Photo/Li Yuheng, Visual Chongqing)

Chongqing’s green infrastructure includes spaces for leisure and recreation. The newly opened Lijia Mountain Greenway, spanning 30 kilometers, offers a scenic cycling route that connects parks and waterfronts and integrates physical activity and relaxation with smart fitness equipment along the route. The greenway is also equipped with rest stations and bicycle parking spots, providing a comfortable experience for visitors.

Chongqing’s green projects are part of a broader strategy to improve environmental quality and residents' well-being. As Chongqing continues expanding its green spaces, it remains committed to fostering a harmonious relationship between urban growth and nature, ensuring its residents and visitors a brighter future.

(Cui Yao and Li Yuheng, reporters from Chongqing Daily, contributed the Chinese version of this report.)