“Kocaeli Walking Path Urban Design Project” designed by Özer\Ürger Architecture, has been one of the city’s most significant public spaces since the construction of the Haydarpaşa-İzmit Railway in 1870. After the railway—flanked by historic plane trees—was removed in 2000 and the area was converted into a pedestrian walkway, the street quickly became the city’s most… View Article
“Kocaeli Walking Path Urban Design Project” designed by Özer\Ürger Architecture, has been one of the city’s most significant public spaces since the construction of the Haydarpaşa-İzmit Railway in 1870. After the railway—flanked by historic plane trees—was removed in 2000 and the area was converted into a pedestrian walkway, the street quickly became the city’s most popular promenade, attracting well-known shops and becoming a key part of the urban memory. However, the full potential of this public space was hindered by heavy traffic on Hürriyet and Cumhuriyet Streets, as well as disruptions caused by infrastructure works that damaged the street’s continuity.
The new “Kocaeli Walking Path Urban Design Project” project seeks to revitalize the area by pedestrianizing Hürriyet Street and calming traffic on Cumhuriyet Street, thereby creating a larger, greener, more comfortable, and engaging public realm.
A major design intervention was the integration of the elevated walkway—which once separated two vehicle lanes—into the sidewalks, eliminating barriers to pedestrian crossings. The areas surrounding the protected plane trees were replaced with permeable concrete to enable water absorption by their roots. Additionally, new benches were thoughtfully designed to encircle and protect the trees, providing visitors with inviting spots to relax under their shade while enjoying the ambient sounds of the street.
Spanning a 1,400-meter path, the project encourages continuous discovery and fresh perspectives. It highlights important landmarks along the route—such as Fevziye Mosque, Yeni Cuma Mosque, Ulu Gazi Primary School, İzmit Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School, and Sabri Yalım Park—by creating vibrant focal points at their intersections. These nodes are enriched with diverse functions including seating, dining, play, work, and entertainment. Throughout the promenade, lively public life is fostered through a series of transitional spaces linking these focal areas, offering a rich mix of activities and experiences.