Finished investment on Monte Cassino Street
The development of the space between Monte Cassino, Szwedzka and Dębowa Streets is an example of the implementation of practical climate change adaptation measures as part of the LIFE PACT project. The initiative harmoniously combines recreational functions with adaptation solutions, which is the result of an interactive approach to project planning and management.
The development of the space between Monte Cassino, Szwedzka and Dębowa Streets is an example of the implementation of practical climate change adaptation measures as part of the LIFE PACT project. The initiative harmoniously combines recreational functions with adaptation solutions, which is the result of an integrative approach to project planning and management.
The design process was conducted in a co-design format. Residents participated in meetings with designers and city representatives, expressing their needs and giving their opinions on the proposed solutions. The most frequently mentioned issues were the need for effective noise insulation and the provision of shaded rest areas. Other requests concerned the creation of a safe space for children, water retention and increasing the amount of greenery.
In response to the reported needs, the space was divided into three key functional zones:
🌿 Green wall – a dense belt of tall, urban-resistant shrubs and trees approximately 2 metres high, serving as a natural acoustic barrier and dust filter.
🛋️ Recreation area – equipped with benches with backrests, a table in the shade, a solar bench with device charging capabilities, rubbish bins, a drinking fountain, a swing bench and tree stumps for children to play on.
💧 Rain garden – a small basin with hydrophytic plants, storing and purifying rainwater from paved surfaces. The garden reduces surface runoff, improves the local microclimate and serves an educational function, drawing attention to sustainable water management in the city.
All surfaces in the recreation area are made of permeable materials (grass pavers and gravel), which allows water to infiltrate and reduces the urban heat island effect.
The completed project is part of a broader revitalisation of Dębnickie Parks and implements the principles of green-blue infrastructure. The environmental effects include, among others, a reduction in noise by 4–5 dB, improved air quality thanks to the retention of dust on leaves, increased biodiversity, water retention and a local reduction in temperature on hot days. The space has become accessible, multifunctional and adapted to the needs of residents.
The investment between Monte Cassino, Szwedzka and Dębowa Streets in Krakow is a valuable model for the implementation of green-blue infrastructure – from functional analysis, through a transparent participatory process, to detailed analysis of implementation and systematic drawing of conclusions for the future. The spatial and environmental effects go hand in hand with the sustained involvement of stakeholders and the transfer of the solutions developed to subsequent urban projects.
