Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1532272
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 9 FEBRUARY 2025 10 OTHER NEWS Vjal Kulħadd: Malta's urban transformation underway, with positive impacts already visible BY 2026, Malta's urban land- scape is set to undergo a signif- icant transformation as a result of the Vjal Kulħadd initiative. With Phase 1 projects having been unveiled, the initiative aims to reshape public spaces across the island, prioritizing pedestrians, cyclists, and green spaces. Speaking on the initiative, In- frastructure Malta highlighted the "positive impacts" already visible in localities such as Że- jtun and Gudja. "In Żejtun, ad- vanced works are underway to transform the town into a pe- destrian-friendly space, while Gudja is seeing the develop- ment of new pathways designed to enhance walkability and con- nectivity," the agency said. The agency said the goal was to create more vibrant, acces- sible, and sustainable commu- nities, offering an alternative to the traffic-heavy, pollu- tion-filled streets of today. "Vjal Kulħadd is not just about improving mobility," CEO of Infrastructure Malta Steve El- lul said. "It's about creating spaces where people can con- nect, relax, and move safely. At a time when many urban are- as face congestion and lack of green spaces, this project offers a much-needed solution, prior- itizing community well-being and sustainability." Earlier this week, Infrastruc- ture Malta launched 14 key projects. These projects range from improving pedestrian zones, expanding cycling lanes, and enhancing green spaces in multiple locations across Mal- ta. "These efforts are part of a broader vision to address urban challenges, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster sustainable urban living," the agency said. The first Phase of the project should be completed by 2026, with over 100 square kilometres of alternative roads planned as part of the initiative. The initia- tive, which has garnered strong support from local councils and environmental organiza- tions, received 40 applications for consideration. 14 projects were selected for Phase 1, with an additional 10 projects under evaluation for Phase 2. Transforming Malta's urban landscape Infrastructure Minister Chris Bonett emphasised the im- portance of these projects for Malta's future while address- ing attendees at the initiative's launch event. "The initiative is a testament to our commit- ment to reclaim public spaces for the benefit of people and the environment," he said. "These projects will provide safer, healthier spaces for our communities while also con- tributing to Malta's broader sustainability goals." As the initiative progresses, Infrastructure Malta stated that the focus would remain on addressing pressing issues such as traffic congestion, air pollu- tion, and the shortage of public green spaces. "By offering safer, more sustainable alternatives to car-centric urban planning, the Vjal Kulħadd project aims to improve the quality of life for residents while encourag- ing healthier lifestyles and fos- tering a sense of community," the agency said. Furthermore, Infrastruc- ture Malta said the success of Phase 1 marked a "significant milestone, but it is only the beginning," with Phase 2 al- ready under evaluation. The projects 1. Attard: Reclaiming the space of the square, the re- moval of roads, and the reuse of citrus trees for the well-be- ing of the community and her- itage preservation. 2. Naxxar: Renovation of Triq John Ayde with a more pedestrian design, planting of native trees, and space for her- itage appreciation. 3. Żebbuġ: The transforma- tion of Ħal Mula area into a larger space, prioritized pe- destrian areas with multi-pur- pose sports courts and ecolog- ical infrastructure. 4. Siġġiewi: Improvement of 3km of Triq Mons. Mikiel Azzopardi with cycle paths, pedestrian safety measures, and green spaces for enhanced connectivity. 5. Msida: Triq Oscar Zammit becomes temporarily pedestri- anized to facilitate community activities and urban mobility through a vibrant street design. 6. Fgura: Reorganization of Triq Hompesch into a slow street with healthy walkways, native trees, and rainwater management to improve ac- cessibility and aesthetics. 7. Rabat: The transformation of Saqqajja into a green public space with preserved biodiver- sity, rainwater management, and an installation that hosts events in the community. 8. Mosta: Preservation of cultural heritage with the im- portance of pedestrian design with improved rainwater in- frastructure and green areas in the heart of Mosta. 9. Mellieħa: Reconfiguration of Triq Selmun for safer pedes- trian access, green infrastruc- ture, and rainwater collection for sustainable irrigation. 10. Floriana: Addition of bike lanes and green corridors along Xatt iċ-Ċangatura to im- prove access for pedestrians, reduce noise pollution, and create a community space. 11. Ħal Safi: Redesign of Mis- raħ il-Knisja to give pedes- trian priority, reduce traffic, and create a safer and greener square for social interaction. 12. Ħal Kirkop: Improvement of Triq il-Madonna tan-Niċċa with wider sidewalks, green areas, and rainwater collection systems to foster safety and sustainability. 13. Ħal Tarxien: The trans- formation of Triq San Tumas with improvements in the pedestrian and green infra- structure, together with the management of rainwater and areas where one can relax. 14. Żurrieq: Redevelopment of Misraħ Santa Marija with paving, pots, and a fountain to give pedestrian priority in the centre of the village. The agency said the goal was to create more vibrant, accessible, and sustainable communities, offering an alternative to the traffic-heavy, pollution-filled streets of today