China achieved significant progress in urban renewal in 2025, continuing its push to make cities greener and more livable, official data showed Wednesday.
According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, the country invested 133.2 billion yuan (about 19.1 billion U.S. dollars) last year in renovating 27,100 old urban residential communities, benefiting 4.99 million households.
Key initiatives included the installation of 14,000 elevators in older residential buildings, improving mobility for more than 4.7 million residents. In addition, more than 4,700 pocket parks—small recreational spaces within urban communities—were established.
The ministry also reported the construction of over 5,800 kilometers of urban greenways and 156,000 kilometers of underground pipelines, either newly built or renovated.
Looking ahead, authorities plan to continue urban renewal efforts in 2026 by expanding shared green spaces, creating more pocket parks, and improving age-friendly environments for residents.
Officials emphasize that urban renewal is critical not only for enhancing quality of life but also for optimizing city structures, promoting green development, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening governance efficiency, as highlighted in the Central Urban Work Conference held in July 2025.
