Part of the Minhang Binjiang Greenery Area is expected to open by the end of this year, retaining the original appearance of old Jiangchuan Town while providing the vicinity a new “green lung.”

The parkland will stretch between the Huangpu River and Jianshe Road from north to south, and between Humin and Lanping roads from east to west.

More than half a century ago, this area was an important port for Shanghai, but it deteriorated over time into a warren of narrow streets, dirty wet markets and dilapidated residential buildings.

But that environment is about to change.

According to the Development Office of the Jiangchuan Road sub-district, the area will be rehabilitated to reflect the original look of the Minhang old town, with décor of traditional lanterns and drums.

Functionally, the greenery area will be divided into four parts: a children’s playground, a waterside terrace, an activity venue for seniors and a public square.

Presently, demolition work has been completed. Reconstruction on the western end of the area will be finished in the next a few months, development officials said.

Meanwhile, Pujiang Road will be also undergo a facelift. The current road is narrow and poorly equipped with traffic amenities. The new road will be a four-lane, 24-meter wide thoroughfare, with new traffic signaling, improved drainage and greenery.

The old ferry terminal will be moved to the coastal area near Lanping and Pujiang roads. Construction will start in October, and the relocated dock is expected to resume operation next year.

The ferry terminal will form part of a new traffic hub near the greenbelt area. The hub will comprise terminals for five buses lines and a parking lot for non-motorized vehicles.

According to a Minhang’s Five-Year Plan, the district is stepping up development on plans to become an ecological, livable area.

“Our standards are based on three points: blue skies, green land and clear water,” said Zhao Qi, Party leader of the district. “We are resolved to address current environment issues in the district, including river management and inclusion of more greenery areas.”

Apart from the Binjiang Greenery Area, an outer-ring greenbelt and a suburban park are on the drawing boards for the next five years.