Water fountains, multi-colored lights, drink vending machines, food stalls and more restrooms are planned for Saigon's popular pedestrian promenade.
VnExpress reports that officials have asked the Department of Planning and Architecture to consider the renovation plans as well as the possibility of connecting the street with surrounding areas. Since its establishment as a walking street in 2015, the boulevard has successfully served as a weekend favorite for loitering Saigoneers and hosted events such as the city's Tet flower festival.
In addition to the added features, the popular lollygagging locale and its contained apartment building that has been transformed into a trendy coffee shop complex is in need of routine maintenance. Cracks and broken street stones have appeared in the US$20 million site. There is no word on when the changes, if approved, will be implemented.
City officials hope that by introducing new food-related amenities like vending machines and dedicated food stalls, District 1 may curb the appearance of errant food vendors plaging the walking plaza every night, leaving behind trash and disrupting order.
According to HCMC Chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong, the department should also consider connecting the walking street with adjacent streets and areas like Lam Son Square, Ton Duc Thang and Ham Nghi Streets.
