Hong Kong Building 34km Waterfront Walk by 2028

Imagine walking 21 miles along a waterfront without interruption, passing through vibrant neighborhoods, parks, and cultural districts while gazing across one of the world's most iconic harbors.

Hong Kong is making that dream real. The city announced it will complete its massive Victoria Harbour promenade project by 2028, creating 34 kilometers of continuous pedestrian pathways connecting both sides of the harbor.

The achievement marks a major milestone for urban planning. Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn shared that 70 percent of the Kowloon waterfront is already open, adding 14 kilometers of accessible public space. Last month, the Hong Kong Island side reached full connection after 16 years of construction, spanning 13 kilometers from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan.

Several exciting sections will open this year. Visitors can soon stroll from the West Kowloon Cultural District to Tai Kok Tsui, explore waterfront spaces near the new Kai Tak emergency hospital, and enjoy public areas at the former Hung Hom railway freight terminal.

The newly opened East Coast Boardwalk showcases what's possible when cities prioritize people over cars. The final section features four themed zones including leisure, arts, pet-friendly areas, and a glass observatory deck that's already attracted tens of thousands of visitors.

Building over water presented serious engineering challenges. Workers constructed the boardwalk beneath highway overpasses with strict height restrictions and navigated narrow marine channels. The solution involved transporting massive 350-tonne modular components by sea, minimizing disruption to nearby neighborhoods.

The Kai Tak area adds another dimension with 13 kilometers of shared paths for pedestrians and cyclists. About 4.3 kilometers is already open, with more sections rolling out progressively as surrounding developments complete.

The Ripple Effect

This project represents more than infrastructure. Hong Kong is reclaiming its waterfront for people, creating spaces where families gather, communities connect, and residents reconnect with their harbor heritage.

The promenade transforms previously inaccessible industrial zones into vibrant public spaces. Food kiosks and multipurpose facilities opening this quarter will host exhibitions, community events, and casual gatherings. Pet owners finally have waterfront destinations to enjoy with their animals.

Other coastal cities worldwide are watching closely. Hong Kong demonstrates how determined planning and innovative engineering can unlock public value from urban waterfronts, even in densely populated areas with complex logistics.

The project also proves that good things come to those who persist. Sixteen years from first plans to final completion shows that transformative urban projects require patience, but the payoff benefits generations.

By 2028, Hong Kong residents will enjoy what officials describe as an "attractive, vibrant, accessible and sustainable harbourfront" stretching across their entire harbor, connecting neighborhoods and creating shared spaces that belong to everyone.