As the population extinction crisis accelerates mainly in non-metropolitan areas, the population growth rate in the metropolitan area is significantly surpassing the national average.
In response, Yeongyang-gun, Gyeongbuk is making considerable efforts to escape the regional (population) extinction crisis by improving living conditions within the county.
First, improving living conditions for local residents begins with addressing immediate issues. For example, Jeongjagyo Bridge in Jeongjok-ri, Cheonggi-myeon, completed through a bridge replacement project, has enhanced the safety of the previously aging and small-scale hazardous bridge, enabling stable passage even during heavy rain or adverse weather conditions.
The newly underway Badaedeul project is part of the Yeongyang-type eco-friendly new town development planned in the Dongbu-ri area of Yeongyang-eup. It lays the foundation for a residential complex of about 390 households and includes core infrastructure such as roads and water supply and sewage facilities.
Through this, Yeongyang-gun aims to establish a foundation to overcome the issue of aging housing, supply high-quality residential land, prevent population outflow, and focus on solutions for population inflow.
To secure spaces for leisure activities and rest near residential areas, a complex cultural center will be constructed in connection with the Dongbu-ri rural space maintenance project, creating a space where residents can enjoy cultural life.
Additionally, plans include building an eco-friendly residential complex by establishing a convention center for large gatherings and ceremonies, a women and family center, and a local garden including a waterfront park trail.
Moreover, an underground public parking lot will be constructed at Yeongyang Elementary School to improve transportation welfare conditions for local residents, and a new Yeongyang Library will be built to serve as a lifelong education center for residents, creating a modern complex cultural space that will provide opportunities for intellectual nourishment.
The relocation of Yeongyang Fire Station, directly linked to residents' safety, is expected to establish a firewall for Yeongyang-gun’s safety by improving access routes to avoid inconvenience during emergency dispatches, situating it adjacent to the police station to enhance disaster response capabilities through on-site information sharing, and strengthening cooperative systems.
Unlike cities, rural towns with potential for many changes can achieve significant results even through small initiatives.
Yeongyang-gun plans to continue expanding the direction of its projects at a steady pace for the hopeful future of local residents, rather than uncertain goals.
County Governor Oh Do-chang stated, “Yeongyang-gun, which is directly facing the crisis of local extinction, will protect a ‘happy home’ that is both a warm living place for current residents and a place where they can dream of the future,” adding, “In 2025, we will greatly foster attachment to the region by improving a comfortable and hopeful living environment for families.”
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
