Poznań is undergoing a significant transformation with two eco initiatives that aim to reclaim urban spaces for nature. The first focuses on “de-concreting” — removing unused asphalt and concrete to make way for new green spaces. The second is an ambitious plan to create green corridors that connect parks and natural areas across the city, offering residents a chance to travel through Poznań in a more nature-friendly way. These projects aim not only to beautify the city but also to address environmental concerns like urban heat and water management, enhancing the general quality of life.
Transforming the Kościuszki, Taylora & Taczaka Intersection
One of the most highly anticipated transformations set to take place next year is at the intersection of Kościuszki, Taylora, and Taczaka streets. This heavily trafficked area, currently dominated by asphalt and concrete, is in line for a green makeover, turning a grey intersection into a much-needed greener space.
Right now, this intersection is a heat-trapping area that contributes to the “urban heat island” effect, where the concrete and asphalt absorb and radiate heat, making the city hotter. However, thanks to Poznań’s de-concreting initiative, this space will soon be transformed.
We are utilising spaces that are not used by pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers and turning them into green areas. This is exactly what will happen at the intersection of Taylora and Kościuszki,
explains Mariusz Wiśniewski, Deputy Mayor of Poznań.
The planned overhaul will see the installation of 12 new trees, including plane trees and ginkgoes, and nearly 150 shrubs, such as roses and hydrangeas. To complement these, over 300 ornamental plants and bulbs, including catnip and hyacinths, will be planted. The greenery will not only bring colour and life to the space but also help absorb rainwater, improving water retention and reducing the risk of urban flooding. Raised pedestrian crossings will be introduced, helping to slow down traffic and make the area safer for those on foot, while maintaining vehicle flow.
Along Taylora Street, a new seating area will be created, echoing the design of the recently modernised Wojciech Cieślewicz Square, providing a calm spot for locals to rest and enjoy the new greenery. As this project takes shape, it will become a prime example of how Poznań is turning underutilised urban spaces into vibrant, green environments that benefit both residents and the environment.
De-Concreting: Reclaiming Poznań’s Streets for Nature
The changes at the Kościuszki-Taylora-Taczaka intersection are part of a wider initiative across Poznań to replace unnecessary concrete and asphalt with greenery. This “de-concreting” strategy has already transformed over 26,000 square metres of paved surfaces across the city, particularly in densely built-up areas like Jeżyce, Wilda, and the Old Town.
In these neighbourhoods, broad pavements and underused streets are being narrowed to make room for new trees, shrubs, and green spaces. For instance, in Jeżyce, the intersection of Sienkiewicza, Gajowa, and Kochanowskiego streets is currently being revitalised. Here, an expanse of asphalt is being replaced with 300 shrubs, 400 ornamental grasses, and 2,000 bulbs, creating a green square that will offer residents a much-needed respite from the urban environment.
The benefits of this de-concreting go beyond visual improvements. As Piotr Libicki, Deputy Director of Poznań’s Road Management Authority (ZDM), notes:
These investments improve safety for all road users and the aesthetics of the area. Residents gain new greenery, and the microclimate on the streets improves. Water retention also improves, reducing the risk of flooding.
Green Corridors in Poznań
While the de-concreting initiative focuses on transforming specific locations, Poznań is also building a network of “green corridors” that will connect different parks, forests, and natural areas across the city. This project envisions 200 kilometres of natural pathways that residents can use to walk or cycle through the city, surrounded by greenery instead of cars. By connecting green spaces, Poznań is creating a more seamless relationship between nature and the urban environment.
One of the key green corridors currently being developed runs alongside the Poznań Fast Tram (PST) line. A new cycling and pedestrian path is being constructed, lined with 72 new trees, including linden, Hungarian oak, and Eastern plane trees. This corridor will connect to a larger network of green spaces, allowing residents to move easily from one park to another without having to navigate traffic-heavy roads. Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak highlights the importance of these corridors for the city’s future:
We want every resident to have easy access to areas where they can play sports or relax in nature. These green corridors will weave through the city, offering a shaded path from home to the park, the forest, or another recreational spot.
By offering alternative, green routes for travel, these corridors help reduce the city’s carbon footprint, promote biodiversity, and provide spaces for relaxation and recreation.
One newly planted section is along Szymanowskiego Street, where 79 new trees — including ginkgoes, red chestnuts, and white poplars — were planted in 2023. As these trees grow, they will provide shade for pedestrians and cyclists, making the area more comfortable and visually appealing.
The Long-Term Benefits of Eco Initiatives
As Poznań continues to grow, the long-term importance of these eco initiatives cannot be underestimated. Urban green spaces are essential in mitigating the effects of climate change, reducing the “urban heat island” effect, improving water management, and enhancing biodiversity. These spaces also contribute to the health and well-being of residents by offering areas for exercise, relaxation, and socialisation.
We have obtained nearly 24 million złoty for the development of green infrastructure. Thanks to this funding, Poznań will also eliminate hard surfaces in five educational institutions,
notes Grzegorz Kamiński, Director of Poznań’s Project Coordination Office.
This funding will ensure that the city’s eco initiatives continue, with more schools, streets, and public spaces set to be revitalised in the coming years.
Looking ahead, the green corridors and de-concreting projects will make Poznań a cooler, greener, and more sustainable city. By replacing unnecessary asphalt with plants and creating natural routes through the city, Poznań is setting a new standard for urban planning that puts people and nature first. These projects are helping to create a city where nature is never far away, making life in Poznań healthier and more enjoyable for everyone.
