A press conference was held on June 26 to discuss the renovation of Guilin's sponge sidewalk, which links the old city with five scenic spots.
As Guangxi's only national sponge city demonstration site in the second batch of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), the project costs 240 million yuan ($34.3 million) and covers 43 roads totaling 48 kilometers.
Starting in 2024, 15 km of 21 roads will be upgraded with an 80 million yuan budget. The improvements feature permeable pavement, sunken green belts, an innovation for Guilin, and eco-friendly tree pits that address drainage issues and promote healthy trees.
Eco-materials and native plants are used, with rain gardens acting as water purifiers and scenic spots. Public participation in supervision ensures benefits, enhancing Guilin's reputation as a top tourist destination.