Ho Chi Minh City, a metropolis with a population exceeding 10 million, needs to develop more public squares and pedestrian spaces to serve its growing population and cultural needs.

The vibrant Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in District 1 has transformed the city's central landscape. It hosts fashion shows, cultural festivals, and public celebrations, providing a green, lively hub for locals and tourists. 

However, as the city evolves, one square is not enough to meet the demands of its expanding urban population.

To address this, the southern Vietnamese city is pushing for new urban public spaces, including the 21-hectare square project in the Thu Thiem New Urban Area, which is expected to be the city’s largest public plaza. 

Additionally, a pedestrian bridge across the Saigon River, connecting Bach Dang Wharf Park in District 1 to Thu Thiem in Thu Duc City, is planned, creating a new architectural landmark.

Another key project is the revitalization of Bach Dang Wharf Park, where city officials are considering opening a weekend market and expanding pedestrian zones.

Locals crave more pedestrian-friendly spaces

Residents have called for an underpass or overpass on Ton Duc Thang Street to better connect Nguyen Hue and Bach Dang Park, ensuring safer pedestrian access.

City dwellers also suggested extending pedestrian zones along Le Loi Boulevard and nearby roads, integrating them with the Ben Thanh Metro Station and promoting green transportation options such as electric buses and public bicycles.

Beyond downtown, residents advocated for the creation of additional pedestrian zones in areas such as the iconic Ho Con Rua (Turtle Lake) in District 3, encompassing Alexandre De Rhodes, Tran Cao Van, Pham Ngoc Thach, and Vo Van Tan Streets.

A call for action

The stark contrast between Ho Chi Minh City’s limited public spaces and the abundance of squares in other Vietnamese provinces, as observed by a local parent, underscores the city's deficit. 

"Why doesn't Ho Chi Minh City have a big square like other places?" a child asked their mother during a visit to a public square in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai.

Experts emphasized that a great city is defined by its public spaces, where people can gather, relax, and experience urban life.

Many smaller cities across Vietnam already have multiple public squares, offering large green spaces for recreation, events, and tourism.

Ho Chi Minh City, they argued, needs to act quickly to expand its pedestrian-friendly areas and create more community spaces.

With growing urbanization and increasing demand for public spaces, Ho Chi Minh City must prioritize the development of large, accessible, and well-planned squares, ensuring they are green, well-connected, and truly serve the people.

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