Anseong-si "Abandoned Overpass Underpass Transformed into Ecological Yard"

Created 4,230㎡ Underneath Naerigo Overpass in Daedeok-myeon

Anseong City in Gyeonggi Province is creating an ecological yard under an overpass that has been neglected and has caused illegal dumping and dust pollution.

On the 27th, Anseong City announced that since October, it has been carrying out the 'Gyeonggi Ecological Yard Creation Project' on a 4,230㎡ area under the National Road No. 38 descending overpass in Sinryeong-ri, Daedeok-myeon.

The underpass of Naerigo Overpass, where Anseong City plans to create an ecological yard by planting various plants and installing landscape lighting. Provided by Anseong City

The Gyeonggi Ecological Yard Creation Project aims to restore ecological corridors disrupted by development and to create habitats for wildlife. The funding is provided by the ecological conservation charges collected during the process of natural environment damage caused by development projects.

The descending overpass under which the city is promoting the ecological yard is located between Chung-Ang University and Lotte Castle Apartments on both sides of the road, making it a place with high foot traffic. However, there have been frequent complaints from residents due to carbon emissions and dust from vehicles, as well as illegal dumping of household waste.

The city was selected as a project target for the Gyeonggi Ecological Yard last December and obtained road occupancy permits from the Seoul Regional Land Management Office and the Suwon Land Management Office in October last month to proceed with construction.

The city is dividing the area under the overpass into north and south sections to install vegetation and landscape lighting. The south side, which receives abundant sunlight, will have diverse vegetation planted, while the north side will feature shade plants, gabion retaining walls, and ecological facilities such as trellises.

The city plans to complete the project by April next year but will not open the area to the public until the plants have adapted to the environment.

An official from Anseong City said, "This Gyeonggi Ecological Yard Creation Project is expected to improve the surrounding environment and reduce vehicle noise," adding, "The installation of landscape lighting will also bring vitality to the area."