ADDIS ABABA – The Corporation is prioritizing the supervision and management of parks to enhance their benefits for residents, said the Addis Ababa City Administration Public Recreational Areas Corporation (AACAPRAC).
This announcement coincided with the official opening of the 4 Kilo Plaza underpass walkway.
AACAPRAC Head Netsanet Daba emphasized the multifaceted advantages of the new plaza, including job creation, improved pedestrian safety (particularly for People with Disabilities (PwDs), economic growth, and expanded recreational space.
The corporation has already generated over 5,000 permanent and temporary jobs in the first half of the fiscal year and aims to create a total of 10,000 by year’s end.
Netsanet highlighted the safety improvements for pedestrians in the historically busy 4 Kilo area, which is home to numerous commercial centers, educational institutions, and high traffic flow. The underpass walkway addresses previous traffic accident risks and facilitates convenient buying and selling of goods and services.
The newly opened walkway features 17 shops offering a variety of products and services, including cosmetics, mobile accessories, tour operations, traditional clothing, cafes, restaurants, coffee, and jewelry.
AACAPRAC currently manages over 57 parks, including 22 standard parks, and is actively seeking partnerships with capable private sector entities to improve park management.
Arada Sub City CEO Getahun Abera , noted that the corridor development initiative, which began in Arada, is yielding positive results for residents in terms of employment, recreation, and other benefits. The 4 Kilo Plaza underpass includes an elevator for accessibility, catering to PwDs and the elderly.
Getahun also emphasized the plaza’s contribution to enhancing the city’s beauty, promoting market connections, and simplifying residents’ lives. He added that over 21,000 jobs have been created through corridor development in Arada Sub City.
The 4 Kilo Plaza underpass walkway is a key component of the city’s broader corridor development program.BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2025
