A groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of the First City residential compound in Zhongshan's Shiqi subdistrict was held on April 1.

As Shiqi's first old residential compound renovation project this year, it involves over 40 million yuan in investment and a 360-day construction period.

Completed and delivered in 1990, the 140,000-square-meter complex comprises 151 buildings and holds 1,694 households. It carries the memories and emotional attachments of several generations of Shiqi people.

The renovation includes structural repairs, facility upgrades, public environment enhancements, cultural space development, smart and age-friendly modifications, and etc. The area will be divided into 4 zones to showcase overseas Chinese culture and arts, Shiqi's history and culture, scholarly culture, and livability. 

The renovation will also optimize underutilized green spaces and add over 400 parking spots. Parking revenue will be used to supplement the subsequent management and maintenance funds for the community.