Development of infrastructure in central Almaty districts: an update on the progress made
Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, is embarking on an ambitious urban development journey aimed at addressing growth challenges while preserving its historical heritage and managing new construction, particularly in central areas.
The city's urban development council has emphasised the need for a shift from a single-center model towards a polycentric city with multiple centres. This approach would distribute housing, jobs, and services more evenly, reducing strain on the downtown core and limiting long commuter traffic jams.
In line with this strategy, a special internet resource called "Q-Laв" - the laboratory of urban projects - has been launched, allowing residents to actively participate in discussions about the city's general plan. This initiative reflects the council's commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
Preserving Almaty's historical monuments is another key focus. While specific preservation projects have not been detailed, the adjustment of the city's general plan is expected to involve a balance between new development and conservation efforts. This is crucial in ensuring the city's cultural heritage is respected amidst redevelopment.
The current city development is concentrated downtown, leading to high demand and pressure for construction. However, experts advocate for decentralizing development to avoid overburdening the central districts with traffic and infrastructure needs. This strategy focuses on reducing the load on central areas by developing other neighbourhoods with adequate infrastructure.
One such development is the giant residential complex "Madeniet" in the Alatau district, which is nearing completion and will be commissioned in March 2021. By spring, 800 families will be able to move into new apartments in the complex.
Last year, more than 4,500 families became happy owners of apartments through state programs, and over 2.4 million square meters of housing were commissioned. Additionally, nearly 2,500 individual houses were built, and plans for urban development include commissioning 1.95 million square meters of housing this year.
Furthermore, nearly 4,500 housing units for socially vulnerable populations will be constructed using state budget funds this year. This commitment to affordable housing reflects the city's dedication to addressing the needs of its diverse population.
National initiatives such as the First National Urban Forum 2025 highlight Kazakhstan’s broader movement towards inclusive and sustainable urban planning, emphasising climate adaptation, digital urban management, and balanced regional growth. These national policies influence Almaty’s urban development strategy with goals of improving livability and sustainable urbanization, potentially incorporating stricter regulations for historical monument preservation and normalized construction activities in the city centre.
As Almaty continues to grow and evolve, its urban development plans are designed to strike a balance between progress and preservation, ensuring the city remains a vibrant and culturally rich destination for its residents and visitors alike.
The urban development council in Almaty is considering investments in real estate, particularly in the decentralization of development to reduce strain on the city's downtown core. This investing strategy could see the growth of housing and infrastructure in other neighborhoods like the Alatau district, such as the ongoing Madeniet residential complex.
The emphasis on balanced regional growth in Almaty's urban development plan includes stricter regulations for the preservation of historical monuments, ensuring that finance for future real-estate development balances new construction with the conservation of the city's cultural heritage.
