Residents take in the sun at the 228 Neighborhood in Yangpu district. [Photo by Gu Yingjie/english.shanghai.gov.cn]
In a dedicated effort to bolster the quality of life of its industrial workforce and create a greater sense of belonging, Shanghai is swiftly moving to provide affordable housing and improved amenities for its residents.
Embracing its vision of becoming a “People’s City”, Shanghai has collected over 27,000 feedback responses to address a wide range of issues—including community governance, employment opportunities, children’s education and senior care services.
Among the pressing concerns highlighted, housing for industrial workers has taken center stage.
In response, the city has embarked on a series of measures—including the renovation of existing neighborhoods and the construction of additional public rental housing units.
One notable success story is the transformation of the 228 Neighborhood in Yangpu district, originally established in the 1950s for industrial workers. This revitalized community now boasts modern facilities such as a canteen and gym, all within a convenient 15-minute walk for residents.
Yu Zhijun, operations director of the community canteen Panda Kitchen, emphasized the diverse menu offerings priced affordably at 6-15 yuan ($0.84 to $2.10), with an additional 20 percent discount for elderly residents.
Freshly prepared dishes cater for the preferences of residents, ensuring a welcoming dining experience for all.
In the bustling business hub near Shanghai South Railway Station in Xuhui district lies Nanzhan Huijia. It’s a public rental housing project catering to various needs, from single-bed options for couples to larger shared accommodation.
Huang Haiyan, an officer from Shanghai Xuhui Huizhong Public Rental Housing Operation Co Ltd, explained that the housing prices ranged from 600-800 yuan per person for multi-bed units experiencing high demand and only single-bed units currently available.
Responding to residents’ needs, the housing company has extended the working hours of housing managers, added more charging spots for electric scooters—and even included a basketball court for recreational activities.
Fang Wei, a construction worker at Shanghai Xuhui Civil Maintenance Engineering Co Ltd, expressed his satisfaction with the improved living conditions at Nanzhan Huijia.
Fang Wei washes his hands at his rented place at Nanzhan Huijia. [Photo by Gu Yingjie/english.shanghai.gov.cn]
Hailing from East China’s Anhui province, Fang noted that the housing provided is the best he has experienced in his decade-long tenure in Shanghai.
,https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-Latest-WhatsNew/20241030/02419319092044ee9356b5281a47371b.html