New Life for the Arboretum: How the Renovation of a Park in Shymkent Changes the Urban Environment

New Life for the Arboretum: How the Renovation of a Park in Shymkent Changes the Urban Environment

25.07.2025 19:33:26 11600

In Shymkent, a large-scale reconstruction is underway on the territory of the A. Askarova State Dendrological Park. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the city akimat and BI Group, one of the largest construction holdings in the country. As part of the project, modern playgrounds and sports grounds are being installed in the park, accessible to all age groups, including people with disabilities.

The arboretum, founded in the late 1970s, has long been not only a unique natural site, but also a favorite place for Shymkent residents to relax. Situated in an ecologically significant area of the city, it is the green heart of the metropolis. Hundreds of species of trees, shrubs and flowers grow on its territory, many of which are rare and protected. In recent years, attention to the park has increased, and the current project has become a logical continuation of the city's desire to create a comfortable, accessible and environmentally sustainable environment for everyone.

The park's innovations include several areas: children's play complexes, outdoor exercise machines, recreation areas with benches and awnings. Particular attention is paid to inclusivity - for the first time in Shymkent, specially equipped areas for children with disabilities are appearing on the territory of the state arboretum. This reflects the city's desire not only to improve the territory, but also to make it accessible to every resident.

It is important that the project is implemented in compliance with environmental standards. The materials used for construction are environmentally friendly, and the placement of new objects is planned in such a way as not to damage existing plants and not to disturb the natural landscape. Before the start of the work, environmental assessments were carried out to minimize any negative impact on the park's ecosystem.

The history of such transformations in Shymkent shows how important it is to take into account the environmental factor when modernizing urban spaces. For example, back in 2018, the same park underwent reconstruction of paths and lanterns, but at that time, accessibility elements or multifunctional zones for all categories of the population were not envisaged. In 2022, new playgrounds appeared in several microdistricts of the city, but they were located on vacant lots without green spaces, and after a short time they faced problems with maintenance and vandalism.

The current project in the arboretum stands out in its own right: it is integrated into the existing green ecosystem, which allows preserving the natural environment and simultaneously expanding the functionality of the space. This solution not only improves the quality of life of city residents, but also fosters environmental culture. Park visitors will see in practice how urban infrastructure can be combined with respect for nature.

The impact of the project on the ecosystem also deserves attention. On the one hand, any construction in a natural area carries potential risks: soil disturbance, disturbance to park inhabitants, and possibly temporary deterioration of the condition of plants near the construction site. However, with a responsible approach, as in this case, such risks are minimized. Moreover, landscaped areas contribute to the even distribution of visitor flow, preventing excessive load on individual areas of green space. This is especially important in the context of climate change and population growth.

The project also has a significant social impact. Inclusive elements help to create an open, respectful society. Children with special needs will now be able to play on an equal basis with others, and adults will be able to play sports in comfortable conditions. This strengthens the sense of community and improves the quality of city life in general.

The emergence of new sites in the arboretum also creates opportunities for holding mass events, sports activities, cultural events and environmental lessons in the open air. Thus, the park becomes not only a place of rest, but also an educational platform where residents can learn more about nature, healthy lifestyle and civic responsibility.

In the future, this approach to improvement may become a model for other parks in Shymkent and even Kazakhstan. Combining inclusivity, ecology and functionality is the path to sustainable urban development. And if each project is based on these principles, then Shymkent may well become a model of harmonious interaction between nature and urbanism.

Thus, the initiative to renew A. Askarova Dendrological Park is not just a renovation or installation of swings. It is a contribution to the environment, social justice and the future of the city. Thanks to such projects, Shymkent is becoming a truly green and comfortable city for everyone.