Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
Gdynia OdNowa: Revitalization
Gdynia OdNowa: Revitalization
Gdynia OdNowa is a revitalization project, that brings degraded areas of the city out of a multidimensional crisis. Project activities cover three districts, involving residents in decision-making processes and using local resources. The project, financed from European funds and the city budget, focuses on infrastructure development and civic participation. Gdynia OdNowa has gained recognition at the local, national and international level, winning numerous nominations and awards.
Poland
Local
Gdynia
Mainly urban
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Yes
2023-12-30
Yes
ERDF: European Regional Development Fund, ESF: European Social Fund, CF: Cohesion Fund
No
No
As a representative of an organisation
Gdynia OdNowa is a revitalization project undertaken in Gdynia, Poland, to improve challenged urban areas and foster a more balanced socio-economic environment for residents. As a key part of the city’s strategy, it combined targeted investments with social initiatives to create lasting change. In line with the 2015 polish Revitalization Act, the revitalization process integrated community-driven interventions which were carried out in six diverse areas of the city as part of the Municipal Revitalization Program (hereinafter: GPR) for 2017-2026. EU funding, both ESF+ and EFRD, supported undertakings on three of those areas.
A key feature of the process was deep stakeholder involvement at every stage—from vision-setting and planning to implementation. The diagnostic phase also included community participation, ensuring local voices shaped the revitalization efforts. One key tool was a survey conducted among residents in both revitalized and non-revitalized areas, which revealed perceived differences across the city. This provided valuable insight into the challenges communities face, helping to design more effective interventions.
The project combined infrastructure investments with social initiatives, improving housing, expanding services for children and families, and creating accessible public spaces and neighborhood centers. Designed with universal and user-oriented principles, these changes promoted inclusion and local engagement.
Gdynia OdNowa’s success has been widely recognized, winning seven national and European awards, including the prestigious REGIOSTARS prize in the Europe Closer to Citizens category. Its integrated approach serves as a model for sustainable urban renewal, ensuring long-term impact through both physical and social transformation.
A key feature of the process was deep stakeholder involvement at every stage—from vision-setting and planning to implementation. The diagnostic phase also included community participation, ensuring local voices shaped the revitalization efforts. One key tool was a survey conducted among residents in both revitalized and non-revitalized areas, which revealed perceived differences across the city. This provided valuable insight into the challenges communities face, helping to design more effective interventions.
The project combined infrastructure investments with social initiatives, improving housing, expanding services for children and families, and creating accessible public spaces and neighborhood centers. Designed with universal and user-oriented principles, these changes promoted inclusion and local engagement.
Gdynia OdNowa’s success has been widely recognized, winning seven national and European awards, including the prestigious REGIOSTARS prize in the Europe Closer to Citizens category. Its integrated approach serves as a model for sustainable urban renewal, ensuring long-term impact through both physical and social transformation.
Resilience
Inclusivity
Participation
Community
Collaboration
The Gdynia OdNowa project was built on a strong commitment to sustainability, addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges in a holistic way. We define sustainability as the ability to create lasting, positive impacts across all dimensions of urban life—improving quality of life, fostering social equity, and ensuring environmental resilience. The project created a sustainability-focused urban development plan for each area, tackling issues like unemployment, poverty, inadequate housing, and environmental degradation.
A critical revitalization goal was to strengthen neighborhood ties and build a sense of belonging to the area, promoting sustainable social and economic development. In marginalized areas, efforts focused on rebuilding public trust in institutions and empowering those involved in the project.
Significant progress had been made in public space development. Key achievements include the development of pedestrian-friendly architectural and urban planning solutions introduced in 15 locations. In three of those, sustainable urban drainage systems were introduced. Six municipal multi-family buildings underwent energy upgrades. Further projects are currently being developed to reduce emissions, upgrade outdated sewage systems and solid fuel stoves, while promoting small-scale water retention systems in households.
The project serves as an exemplary model by demonstrating how integrated, innovative approaches can achieve sustainable social, environmental, and economic transformation at the neighborhood level.
A critical revitalization goal was to strengthen neighborhood ties and build a sense of belonging to the area, promoting sustainable social and economic development. In marginalized areas, efforts focused on rebuilding public trust in institutions and empowering those involved in the project.
Significant progress had been made in public space development. Key achievements include the development of pedestrian-friendly architectural and urban planning solutions introduced in 15 locations. In three of those, sustainable urban drainage systems were introduced. Six municipal multi-family buildings underwent energy upgrades. Further projects are currently being developed to reduce emissions, upgrade outdated sewage systems and solid fuel stoves, while promoting small-scale water retention systems in households.
The project serves as an exemplary model by demonstrating how integrated, innovative approaches can achieve sustainable social, environmental, and economic transformation at the neighborhood level.
Gdynia OdNowa project effectively blends aesthetic and cultural values to enhance residents' quality of life. The key objective of the investments, regardless of their scale or purpose, was to restore the functionality of urban spaces while ensuring that the architectural quality adds value—improving the physical and psychological well-being of users. By respecting cultural and spatial heritage, the project strengthens local identity and fosters a sense of belonging, directly impacting quality of life.
A vital role in elevating the aesthetic value of the project was played by a small but crucial team of architects within the Social Innovation Lab. They ensured that all design solutions for revitalization investments, whether in buildings or public spaces, were not only functional and of high aesthetic quality but also accessible to all.
A prime example of this approach is the Forest Park in Oksywie, where functional and aesthetic design solutions have transformed it into a popular space for recreation, meetings, and strolls. The park is accessible to all residents and visitors, balancing environmental protection with user-friendly design. The space was carefully planned to be pedestrian-friendly and accessible, while minimizing its impact on the local flora and fauna. The introduction of distinctive elements, such as orange lighting construction, has enhanced the area's appeal and reduced its stigma as a neglected space, helping counter tendencies of social polarization.
Before initiating the transformation, participatory and diagnostic methods were used to ensure that the project aligned with residents' needs and preserved the identity of public spaces. Additionally, the creation of neighbourhood centres has fostered social integration, intercultural dialogue, and collective experiences, which have strengthened community bonds and encouraged civic engagement.Thus, it broadens individualized perspectives on urban reality.
A vital role in elevating the aesthetic value of the project was played by a small but crucial team of architects within the Social Innovation Lab. They ensured that all design solutions for revitalization investments, whether in buildings or public spaces, were not only functional and of high aesthetic quality but also accessible to all.
A prime example of this approach is the Forest Park in Oksywie, where functional and aesthetic design solutions have transformed it into a popular space for recreation, meetings, and strolls. The park is accessible to all residents and visitors, balancing environmental protection with user-friendly design. The space was carefully planned to be pedestrian-friendly and accessible, while minimizing its impact on the local flora and fauna. The introduction of distinctive elements, such as orange lighting construction, has enhanced the area's appeal and reduced its stigma as a neglected space, helping counter tendencies of social polarization.
Before initiating the transformation, participatory and diagnostic methods were used to ensure that the project aligned with residents' needs and preserved the identity of public spaces. Additionally, the creation of neighbourhood centres has fostered social integration, intercultural dialogue, and collective experiences, which have strengthened community bonds and encouraged civic engagement.Thus, it broadens individualized perspectives on urban reality.
The revitalization project exemplifies the integration of social inclusion models, aiming to ensure accessibility for all residents, regardless of social, economic, or health conditions. The project focused on creating inclusive spaces and activities, fostering grassroots activism and ensuring transparency with the principle of 'nothing about us, without us.'
Public spaces and buildings were designed based on design for all principles. An example is themunicipal residential building at 30 Dickmana Street, which consists of 30 apartments, adaptable for the people with special needs. It also includes a community hall and garden that foster intergenerational integration.
Three Neighbourhood Centres, which were created within Gdynia Odnowa process, offer free events for all ages, providing spaces for education, entertainment, and socializing. Activities are organized by both animators and residents (mostly volunteering their skills or knowledge to other residents), strengthening the sense of community and enabling participation in social life, regardless of resources.
Inclusive governance was supported through identifying local leaders, encouraging NGOs, and establishing a social advisory body that proposed systemic improvements. Through grant competitions for NGOs and mini-grants for residents, local leaders were able to act as change-makers. The project promoted a shift from beneficiaries to co-creators of services, enabling residents to play an active role in their community's development.
Intersectoral collaboration within local government allowed for individualized support for vulnerable people and tailored corrective actions for long-standing, multi-layered community issues. Innovative participation methods, like research walks and social mapping, ensured that engagement was personalized
Public spaces and buildings were designed based on design for all principles. An example is themunicipal residential building at 30 Dickmana Street, which consists of 30 apartments, adaptable for the people with special needs. It also includes a community hall and garden that foster intergenerational integration.
Three Neighbourhood Centres, which were created within Gdynia Odnowa process, offer free events for all ages, providing spaces for education, entertainment, and socializing. Activities are organized by both animators and residents (mostly volunteering their skills or knowledge to other residents), strengthening the sense of community and enabling participation in social life, regardless of resources.
Inclusive governance was supported through identifying local leaders, encouraging NGOs, and establishing a social advisory body that proposed systemic improvements. Through grant competitions for NGOs and mini-grants for residents, local leaders were able to act as change-makers. The project promoted a shift from beneficiaries to co-creators of services, enabling residents to play an active role in their community's development.
Intersectoral collaboration within local government allowed for individualized support for vulnerable people and tailored corrective actions for long-standing, multi-layered community issues. Innovative participation methods, like research walks and social mapping, ensured that engagement was personalized
Central to the project’s design and implementation was the active involvement of residents, whose needs and issues the project aimed to address. The consultation process included numerous meetings, both in-person and online, allowing stakeholders to participate directly in the discussion of planned and implemented changes.
In almost every revitalised area, information and consultation points were set up (in neighborhood centes, NGO headquarters or temporary offices on construction sites), which enabled first-hand, up-to-date information exchange. Surveys, plebiscites, and regular delivery of information to residents' mailboxes also facilitated direct participation.
An important aspect of community engagement was the Neighborhood Fund, which provided mini-grants for small initiatives such as creating community gardens or painting murals. These projects allowed residents to contribute their ideas to urban space, fostering stronger social ties and empowering them to take ownership of their neighborhood. Celebrating revitalization milestones through festivals, picnics, and holidays helped build a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. Fun also allowed people to distance themselves from the often difficult and lengthy neighborhood transformations.
Officials and animators were present in the revitalized areas at least once or twice a week, strengthening the relationship between the city and residents. This constant presence fostered a sense of co-responsibility for the project’s success and increased civic activity—evidenced by the 172 applications to update the revitalization program, a tenfold increase from before the project began. This close interaction also provided officials with ongoing feedback.
For officials, in turn, the relationship provided ongoing feedback, which directly translated into improved project’s quality and responsiveness to local needs.
In almost every revitalised area, information and consultation points were set up (in neighborhood centes, NGO headquarters or temporary offices on construction sites), which enabled first-hand, up-to-date information exchange. Surveys, plebiscites, and regular delivery of information to residents' mailboxes also facilitated direct participation.
An important aspect of community engagement was the Neighborhood Fund, which provided mini-grants for small initiatives such as creating community gardens or painting murals. These projects allowed residents to contribute their ideas to urban space, fostering stronger social ties and empowering them to take ownership of their neighborhood. Celebrating revitalization milestones through festivals, picnics, and holidays helped build a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. Fun also allowed people to distance themselves from the often difficult and lengthy neighborhood transformations.
Officials and animators were present in the revitalized areas at least once or twice a week, strengthening the relationship between the city and residents. This constant presence fostered a sense of co-responsibility for the project’s success and increased civic activity—evidenced by the 172 applications to update the revitalization program, a tenfold increase from before the project began. This close interaction also provided officials with ongoing feedback.
For officials, in turn, the relationship provided ongoing feedback, which directly translated into improved project’s quality and responsiveness to local needs.
The revitalization project is the result of a collaborative effort by many stakeholders at various levels. Securing EU funding was crucial to its success and was made possible through cooperation with the Office of the Marshal of the Pomorskie Voivodeship. This regional managing authority not only facilitated the funding process but also supported the exchange of experiences among cities in the region and promoted the project's achievements.
At the local level, the Laboratory for Social Innovation (LIS) played a central role in coordinating and implementing the project, working closely with City Hall and other entities such as the Municipal Social Assistance Center, Roads and Greenery Department, Conservation Office, Municipal Buildings Department, and cultural institutions like the Museum of the City of Gdynia. These institutions aligned their activities with the revitalization goals, contributing to the project’s success and complementing the GPR's objectives.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were also key participants, responsible for organizing events, fostering community integration through cultural activities, and expanding support services. Their operational role ensured that local needs were met effectively, and their expertise was vital in enhancing residents' quality of life. NGOs also contributed by forming informal coalitions that linked public institutions, NGOs, and community leaders, strengthening coordination, facilitating information exchange, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
The creative aspect of the project was further supported through partnerships with the Faculty of Architecture of the Gdansk University of Technology and the participation of LIS team members in nationwide research projects, such as the “Adaptation of the UrbanLab concept in Gdynia” and initiatives like the “Partner Cities Initiative,” which facilitated the exchange of knowledge and information on urban innovation programs funded by the EU.
At the local level, the Laboratory for Social Innovation (LIS) played a central role in coordinating and implementing the project, working closely with City Hall and other entities such as the Municipal Social Assistance Center, Roads and Greenery Department, Conservation Office, Municipal Buildings Department, and cultural institutions like the Museum of the City of Gdynia. These institutions aligned their activities with the revitalization goals, contributing to the project’s success and complementing the GPR's objectives.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were also key participants, responsible for organizing events, fostering community integration through cultural activities, and expanding support services. Their operational role ensured that local needs were met effectively, and their expertise was vital in enhancing residents' quality of life. NGOs also contributed by forming informal coalitions that linked public institutions, NGOs, and community leaders, strengthening coordination, facilitating information exchange, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
The creative aspect of the project was further supported through partnerships with the Faculty of Architecture of the Gdansk University of Technology and the participation of LIS team members in nationwide research projects, such as the “Adaptation of the UrbanLab concept in Gdynia” and initiatives like the “Partner Cities Initiative,” which facilitated the exchange of knowledge and information on urban innovation programs funded by the EU.
The revitalization project required an interdisciplinary approach, combining both technical and soft competencies. Construction and architectural expertise was essential for modernizing infrastructure and designing accessible housing, as well as functional and aesthetic buildings like the Przystań Widna 2A community center and the Dickman 30 municipal building.
Urban planning knowledge, in collaboration with the Faculty of Architecture at the Gdansk University of Technology, guided the creation of public spaces and connections in line with trends such as the 15-minute city and sustainable urban mobility. Insights from psychology and social psychology helped support individuals and groups in adapting to change, overcoming crises, and fostering a sense of security. Additionally, design thinking, placemaking, and experience from architectural and urban design competitions informed the service design process.
Collaboration with the Municipal Social Welfare Center, along with experts in youth work, probation, policing, addiction therapy, and education, was crucial in tailoring support services for residents. This intersectoral collaboration brought together urban planners, NGOs, architects, psychologists, social workers, and other specialists, facilitating the flexible and effective implementation of innovative solutions. A prime example is the Haven model, which combined social, educational, and infrastructural elements through Neighborhood Houses, activating residents and strengthening community bonds.
This interdisciplinary approach resulted in a sustainable revitalization, extending beyond infrastructure to foster social development and resident integration. The collaboration of diverse fields led to comprehensive outcomes that positively impacted residents' quality of life and their sense of responsibility for the common good.
Urban planning knowledge, in collaboration with the Faculty of Architecture at the Gdansk University of Technology, guided the creation of public spaces and connections in line with trends such as the 15-minute city and sustainable urban mobility. Insights from psychology and social psychology helped support individuals and groups in adapting to change, overcoming crises, and fostering a sense of security. Additionally, design thinking, placemaking, and experience from architectural and urban design competitions informed the service design process.
Collaboration with the Municipal Social Welfare Center, along with experts in youth work, probation, policing, addiction therapy, and education, was crucial in tailoring support services for residents. This intersectoral collaboration brought together urban planners, NGOs, architects, psychologists, social workers, and other specialists, facilitating the flexible and effective implementation of innovative solutions. A prime example is the Haven model, which combined social, educational, and infrastructural elements through Neighborhood Houses, activating residents and strengthening community bonds.
This interdisciplinary approach resulted in a sustainable revitalization, extending beyond infrastructure to foster social development and resident integration. The collaboration of diverse fields led to comprehensive outcomes that positively impacted residents' quality of life and their sense of responsibility for the common good.
The project was innovative in its approach to developing social-investment strategies for specific areas of the city, offering a more integrated and multidisciplinary model than previous efforts. Unlike past strategies, which were more siloed, this project utilized multiple tools, funding sources, and working methods to create a cohesive plan.
The establishment of the Laboratory for Social Innovation (LIS), a new municipal entity reporting directly to the Mayor, was a key innovation. LIS enabled the incubation and prototyping of solutions while maintaining close ties with residents through fieldwork and numerous consultation meetings. Additionally, the project introduced data-driven, evidence-based solutions into public administration, setting it apart from traditional methods.
One of the project’s key challenges was managing innovation at various scales and incorporating it into a sustainable urban system. This required extensive collaboration with public, private, and volunteer sector partners, helping to build new competencies within both the city administration and the local community. This partnership approach also highlighted the importance of grassroots initiatives in driving lasting change.
The establishment of the Laboratory for Social Innovation (LIS), a new municipal entity reporting directly to the Mayor, was a key innovation. LIS enabled the incubation and prototyping of solutions while maintaining close ties with residents through fieldwork and numerous consultation meetings. Additionally, the project introduced data-driven, evidence-based solutions into public administration, setting it apart from traditional methods.
One of the project’s key challenges was managing innovation at various scales and incorporating it into a sustainable urban system. This required extensive collaboration with public, private, and volunteer sector partners, helping to build new competencies within both the city administration and the local community. This partnership approach also highlighted the importance of grassroots initiatives in driving lasting change.
The project employed a diagnostic approach, starting with multidimensional data analysis of the area, followed by a user-centered design methodology. This involved working closely with various stakeholders to develop solutions that met the needs and expectations of residents. The Social Innovation Lab played a key role in coordinating the process, while external experts provided tools for a structured revitalization approach and suggested potential solutions. The methodology was based on data analysis, SWOT synthesis, and workshops that encouraged broad participation from stakeholders. Special attention was given to understanding the motivations and challenges of residents, which was crucial to the design process.
Design thinking and service design methods refined ideas for the most complex projects, ensuring activities aligned with real needs. These methods continued to be applied during later stages of the project, including implementation and monitoring of the Municipal Revitalization Program. The solutions proposed went beyond traditional revitalization planning by incorporating innovative participation forms, such as research and virtual walks, prototyping spatial solutions, social mapping, and identity-building activities. These methods allowed a deeper understanding of local challenges and encouraged ongoing solution corrections with the active community involvement throughout the process.
EU funding and the city’s resources made it possible to apply modern tools and methodologies in creating the GPR. By combining expert knowledge, innovative methods, and extensive community participation, the Gdynia OdNowa revitalization project stands as a successful example of a sustainable, socially inclusive approach. It offers a model that can be adapted and applied to revitalization projects in other cities, demonstrating the impact of a comprehensive, innovative approach to urban renewal.
Design thinking and service design methods refined ideas for the most complex projects, ensuring activities aligned with real needs. These methods continued to be applied during later stages of the project, including implementation and monitoring of the Municipal Revitalization Program. The solutions proposed went beyond traditional revitalization planning by incorporating innovative participation forms, such as research and virtual walks, prototyping spatial solutions, social mapping, and identity-building activities. These methods allowed a deeper understanding of local challenges and encouraged ongoing solution corrections with the active community involvement throughout the process.
EU funding and the city’s resources made it possible to apply modern tools and methodologies in creating the GPR. By combining expert knowledge, innovative methods, and extensive community participation, the Gdynia OdNowa revitalization project stands as a successful example of a sustainable, socially inclusive approach. It offers a model that can be adapted and applied to revitalization projects in other cities, demonstrating the impact of a comprehensive, innovative approach to urban renewal.
The Gdynia OdNowa project offers several elements that can be replicated in other contexts, particularly in revitalization efforts. One key aspect is its interdisciplinary, user-centered design approach. Methods like design thinking and service design ensure solutions align with residents' real needs, motivations, and challenges, particularly in areas at risk of social exclusion. Gdynia’s broad participatory processes—such as survey walks, placemaking, social mapping, and virtual walks—can also engage residents in other cities, ensuring their active role in shaping solutions.
Another transferable element is the strong collaboration with stakeholders (institutions, residents, NGOs, private sector, artists). The LIS team, as the project’s operator, played a central role in coordinating activities, serving as a model for cities seeking integrated revitalization. Involving external experts, who provide tools and identify solution paths, is another adaptable feature.
The methodology and approach developed within the Municipal Revitalization Program provide a flexible model for planning and implementing development initiatives beyond revitalization. By integrating social and investment considerations, this approach ensures a holistic perspective adaptable to various urban challenges. It supports tailored, community-centered solutions that can extend to broader urban development projects, housing policies, and initiatives aimed at improving social and economic outcomes.
In conclusion, the Gdynia OdNowa project’s innovative methods, broad participation, and interdisciplinary collaboration offer a strong foundation for replication. Implementing these practices can enhance revitalization efforts and improve the quality of life in other areas.
Another transferable element is the strong collaboration with stakeholders (institutions, residents, NGOs, private sector, artists). The LIS team, as the project’s operator, played a central role in coordinating activities, serving as a model for cities seeking integrated revitalization. Involving external experts, who provide tools and identify solution paths, is another adaptable feature.
The methodology and approach developed within the Municipal Revitalization Program provide a flexible model for planning and implementing development initiatives beyond revitalization. By integrating social and investment considerations, this approach ensures a holistic perspective adaptable to various urban challenges. It supports tailored, community-centered solutions that can extend to broader urban development projects, housing policies, and initiatives aimed at improving social and economic outcomes.
In conclusion, the Gdynia OdNowa project’s innovative methods, broad participation, and interdisciplinary collaboration offer a strong foundation for replication. Implementing these practices can enhance revitalization efforts and improve the quality of life in other areas.
The Gdynia OdNowa: Revitalization project addresses global challenges that impact cities worldwide, particularly social and spatial exclusion, urban polarization, and inequality. The project focuses on improving the quality of life in degraded areas at risk of exclusion, particularly those located far from the city center. This aligns with global concerns related to social disparities, urbanization, and demographic shifts.
A key challenge tackled by the project is social integration and reducing spatial segregation. By improving access to social services, infrastructure, and public spaces, the initiative responds to global inequalities in access to essential resources such as employment, education, healthcare, and mobility. Additionally, by fostering neighborhood-inclusive spaces, it helps counter rising social tensions and supports the development of resilient communities.
Sustainable development is another critical aspect, aligning with global priorities, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Gdynia OdNowa directly contributes to SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
The project also builds on insights from the European Civitas Dynamo initiative and Gdynia’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, addressing global challenges such as urban decarbonization, sustainable transportation, and environmental protection.
In summary, Gdynia OdNowa delivers local solutions to pressing global social, spatial, and environmental challenges, advancing sustainable urban development and fostering a more equitable and inclusive city.
A key challenge tackled by the project is social integration and reducing spatial segregation. By improving access to social services, infrastructure, and public spaces, the initiative responds to global inequalities in access to essential resources such as employment, education, healthcare, and mobility. Additionally, by fostering neighborhood-inclusive spaces, it helps counter rising social tensions and supports the development of resilient communities.
Sustainable development is another critical aspect, aligning with global priorities, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Gdynia OdNowa directly contributes to SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
The project also builds on insights from the European Civitas Dynamo initiative and Gdynia’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, addressing global challenges such as urban decarbonization, sustainable transportation, and environmental protection.
In summary, Gdynia OdNowa delivers local solutions to pressing global social, spatial, and environmental challenges, advancing sustainable urban development and fostering a more equitable and inclusive city.
The Gdynia OdNowa project has transformed underprivileged neighborhoods by improving public spaces, safety, social infrastructure, and community resilience. Nine public spaces of various scales and functions were revitalized, enhancing residents’ quality of life. Public safety was also a priority—16 new pedestrian crossings were introduced, lighting and traffic infrastructure were upgraded in five locations, and four substandard residential buildings were demolished to eliminate safety hazards.
The project fostered neighborhood integration and strengthened community resilience. Three Neighborhood Centers were established, offering social services and public amenities. In 2022, they provided temporary housing for 290 Ukrainian refugees for six months and also functioned as outpatient clinics.
Recreational access was expanded with three new sports fields equipped with fitness facilities, benefiting local communities. Additionally, 23 partnerships with private entities were established, enhancing collaboration with the housing sector.
To further engage residents, 13 grant competitions for NGOs were organized, strengthening local identity and civic involvement. The project also facilitated three nationwide architectural and urban planning competitions, leading to the implementation of three award-winning public investments recognized in Polish and international architectural competitions.
In total, 315 people gained improved access to social services through the initiative.
By prioritizing the most vulnerable areas and populations, Gdynia OdNowa has delivered tangible improvements in accessibility, safety, social cohesion, and quality of life, aligning with the core objectives of the category.
The project fostered neighborhood integration and strengthened community resilience. Three Neighborhood Centers were established, offering social services and public amenities. In 2022, they provided temporary housing for 290 Ukrainian refugees for six months and also functioned as outpatient clinics.
Recreational access was expanded with three new sports fields equipped with fitness facilities, benefiting local communities. Additionally, 23 partnerships with private entities were established, enhancing collaboration with the housing sector.
To further engage residents, 13 grant competitions for NGOs were organized, strengthening local identity and civic involvement. The project also facilitated three nationwide architectural and urban planning competitions, leading to the implementation of three award-winning public investments recognized in Polish and international architectural competitions.
In total, 315 people gained improved access to social services through the initiative.
By prioritizing the most vulnerable areas and populations, Gdynia OdNowa has delivered tangible improvements in accessibility, safety, social cohesion, and quality of life, aligning with the core objectives of the category.
