"I always dreamed of sitting between two highways": Kyiv residents' reaction to the center renovation project

Kyiv residents are actively discussing the project of a new public space in the capital's center — reactions range from cautious support to sharp criticism.

Оновлення території поблизу Бессарабської площі. Фото: КМДА

10 April, 19:49

The idea to create a new public space with a fountain on the site of the former Lenin monument in the center of Kyiv has sparked an active reaction on social media. Kyiv residents evaluate the initiative in different ways: some support the renovation of the neglected area, but many criticize the project for its lack of meaning, questionable urban solutions, and inconsistency with the symbolism of the place.

Some users perceive the project with restraint or even cautious optimism. In particular, people point out that the territory has remained neglected for years and needs change.

"Not even 10+ years have passed. Renders are one thing; we'll see if anything will actually be done," — write on social media. Others add, that "this is at least some change in the design of this, to be honest, neglected place."

At the same time, a significant portion of commentators are critical of the initiative — both from the point of view of symbolism and from the perspective of urban planning.

Some emphasize that the site has historical significance related to the events of the Revolution of Dignity, and the fountain does not reflect this context.

"In such a symbolic place, there should be a symbol," — note users.

Others suggest alternatives — in particular, installing a monument to historical figures or creating a memorial space.

"A modern monument to the Defender of Ukraine would be appropriate there," — write in the comments.

The urban solutions themselves are also criticized separately. Users point to a possible lack of accessibility, an excess of concrete, and a lack of greenery.

"Instead of modern solutions with more greenery and space for pedestrians, we are returning to concrete and a city for cars," — it says in one of the posts.

They also quip regarding the location of the future space: "I always dreamed of sitting between two highways."

Some commentators support individual elements of the project, specifically the idea of ground-level crossings.

"Out of the entire project, I only liked the ground-level crossings," — write users, although others, on the contrary, consider them redundant.

Remarks are also being heard regarding the absence of an open architectural competition.

"The city is full of talented architects, there should be some kind of competition", — note Kyivans.

In addition to criticism and discussions, humorous reactions to the project have begun to appear on social media.

Kyivans are creating memes and ironic visualizations of the future space — in particular, they suggest installing "monuments" to unexpected characters at this location or hyperbolize the idea of the fountain as the main element of the location.

Overall, the reaction of residents demonstrates a split in the perception of the project: from support for the renewal of the space to sharp criticism of both its aesthetics and its content.