The Colorful Community project in Binjiang district. [Photo/Hangzhou Construction]

Hangzhou has received international recognition for its urban renewal efforts, with two local projects recently selected among 30 global best practice cases, according to the city's housing and urban-rural development commission.

The results were announced at the 13th World Urban Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, where the first International Outstanding Practices in Urban Renewal selection was unveiled.

The Colorful Community project in Binjiang district and the Linping Old Town renewal project were selected from submissions from around the world.

Jointly launched by UN-Habitat and Shanghai University, the program highlights globally leading urban renewal practices and serves as a platform for sharing practical experiences in urban development.

The Binjiang project integrates three communities and five resettlement housing areas, addressing challenges such as fragmented space, aging infrastructure, and service inefficiency. It has established nine neighborhood service hubs, upgraded 460,000 square meters of residential areas, installed 165 elevators, and built barrier-free facilities and pedestrian networks to improve livability and accessibility.

The Linping project focuses on culture-led and people-centered renewal. A 600-meter cultural corridor connects key ecological and heritage sites, supported by new public facilities such as libraries, cultural spaces, and pocket parks. It also improves parking and public services while enhancing environmental quality.

Officials said the recognition reflects Hangzhou's integrated, district-level approach to urban renewal and its systematic policy framework. The city will continue refining models and standards for sustainable, people-centered urban development.

The Linping Old Town renewal project. [Photo/Hangzhou Construction]