Island City, Fukuoka’s 401-hectare artificial island in Higashi Ward, had turned 10. With several high-rise condos, Island City has become a popular destination for child-rearing families. Of the 6,500 residents living in 2,100 households, nearly 30% are under the age of 15. Although the City continues to pour public funds into the project, the development of residential areas has not kept pace with the demand. In addition to the cost of land reclamation, the City has spent ¥57.1 billion on land for the island’s schools and the relocation of the Fukuoka Children’s Hospital. The City aims to continue beefing up facilities, but the island lacks enough stores to meet the residents’ needs. Some say the lack of a neighborhood council is an issue, and efforts are underway to establish one. Meanwhile, the City’s ultimate goal is to have 18,000 people living on the island, and construction on six new apartment buildings is making headway. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 9/24
(Photo: provided by the City of Fukuoka)
