On August 13, an on-site monitoring visit was conducted to assess the reconstruction works at the First President’s Park of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Extensive works are currently underway in the park to upgrade its infrastructure and create a modern and comfortable public environment. The project includes granite paving, the construction of water features and three reservoirs for automated irrigation, the installation of wooden pedestrian decking and pathways, as well as the laying of utility networks.

As part of the park’s renovation, the site will feature a large modern children’s playground, themed gardens from around the world — including Italian, English and others, a renovated M-1 canal, quiet recreation areas, sports and family leisure facilities, as well as a modern open-air stage for city cultural and public events.

The fountain complex is also being reconstructed. Its historical appearance will be preserved, while new structural solutions will significantly improve its functionality and make the facility safer. In particular, special safe areas will be provided where children and adults can cool off during hot weather without risking their health. This is especially important given children’s tendency to bathe in fountain basins.

Special attention was also paid to creating a barrier-free environment and ensuring that all park infrastructure is accessible to people with reduced mobility, so that the renovated space will be as convenient and inclusive as possible for all visitors.

Issues that have caused concern among residents were discussed in detail. Regarding the removal of the entrance arch cladding, it was explained that due to prolonged use, the structure had lost its original appearance and had become worn. Therefore, the project provides for replacing the outdated plastic cladding with durable decorative ceramic panels. At the same time, all major decorative elements will be preserved, restored and repainted.

Particular emphasis was placed on environmental protection and careful treatment of nature. The project includes comprehensive landscaping and the planting of approximately one million trees, shrubs and flowers, which will significantly enhance environmental sustainability and improve the landscape. All rose bushes located in the construction area were carefully and temporarily replanted in safe areas of the park. It was also encouraging to see that trees were preserved rather than removed to accommodate pedestrian paths, and were incorporated harmoniously into the landscape.

During the reconstruction and dismantling of the old irrigation system, the contractor is providing temporary irrigation of plants using technical solutions, while construction of the new automated irrigation system is being carried out in parallel.

The reconstruction works are scheduled to be completed by December 2026; however, there is still a considerable amount of work to be done.

It is difficult to say whether the works will be completed on time, so another monitoring visit will be conducted in October. The quality of the works, preservation of green spaces, and creation of an inclusive urban environment remain under the continuous monitoring of the Public Council.