Genk wins 35,000 euros for greening project at Delcourtplaats

The city of Genk is set to transform the Delcourtplaats square in the Zwartberg district into a greener, more inviting public space, a plan that has earned it the Ethias Solidarity Award. The current Delcourtplaats features a sparsely used basketball court, which the city intends to redevelop as part of its broader strategy to "de-pave" and increase green areas across Genk.

"We want to de-pave as much as possible throughout our city," stated alderman Karel Kriekemans (CD&V). The redevelopment of Delcourtplaats aligns with Genk's heat plan, which focuses on reducing paved surfaces to mitigate urban heat island effects. The award, which comes with a 35,000 euro grant, will directly fund the planned improvements for the square.

Kriekemans highlighted that Zwartberg is a densely built neighborhood with limited green space. The project aims to address this deficit by creating a more pleasant environment. Residents of the neighborhood will have a say in the final design and features of the revitalized square, with community engagement planned to begin after the summer.

The initiative is part of Genk's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents by increasing green infrastructure and creating more functional, aesthetically pleasing public areas. The transformation of Delcourtplaats is expected to make the area more enjoyable and beneficial for the local community.

“

We willen overal in onze stad maximaal ontharden