Lishui repurposes space under overpass for recreation
People play basketball at the basketball court under the overpass. [Photo/Tide News]
Cars rush by on the overpass while underneath people relax and exercise. This is a common scene beneath the Jingning overpass in Lishui, Zhejiang province.
The area under the overpass, once abandoned, has become a place for recreation and fitness. Adorned with greenery, it features go-kart tracks, basketball courts, soccer fields, and fitness equipment.
The transformation has turned the space into a popular destination for families and individuals, offering a stark contrast to the bustling traffic above. "It used to be overgrown and abandoned, but now I bring my family here to play ball games and take walks whenever I have time," said resident Yang Ping.
The Jingning overpass is a key part of the Jingning-Wencheng Expressway, located at the entrance to Jingning She autonomous county in Lishui. It boasts a unique design that incorporates elements of She ethnic customs.
Illuminated at night, the overpass has become a new urban landmark, blending modern architecture with local cultural heritage.
The initiative to revitalize the space under the overpass was driven by a desire to align the area with the scenic nature of the overpass and to create a more appealing urban environment. The effort has not only provided residents with additional recreational space but also enhanced the city's overall aesthetic.