Streets Belong to Children in Izmir: "944 Dead-End Play Street" Opens!

A collaborative project between Izmir University of Economics (IUE) students and the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality has sparked a social transformation in the Pazaryeri neighborhood. Redesigned based on the needs of local residents and children, the 944 Dead-End has been transformed into a brand-new "Play Street" and is now ready to open its doors.

The "944 Dead-End Play Street Design Project," carried out under the IAED 366 Collective Movement course at the IUE Faculty of Fine Arts and Design, has come to fruition. Led by students and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Didem Kan, the project was conducted in partnership with the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and was completed after an intensive 15-week design and implementation process.

The project began with interactive workshops held in a house provided to the student designers by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality on the 944 Dead-End. By involving neighborhood residents—especially children—in the process, the team prioritized the needs and requests of all street users.

As a result of these workshops, the children's vision of a dream playground became a reality. With colorful ground markings, game tracks, physical activity zones, and seating areas for parents, the 944 Dead-End has evolved from a simple thoroughfare into an interactive social space that brings the community together.

One of the core objectives of the project was to revitalize the culture of play within the neighborhood and strengthen social belonging. By creating a street design with a unique identity specific to the Pazaryeri neighborhood, the project stands out as a significant step toward a sustainable future for the area.

Completed with great dedication from the design phase to implementation, the opening ceremony of the "944 Dead-End Play Street" will be attended by the Mayor of Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, Cemil Tugay.

All residents of Izmir who wish to see this exemplary project firsthand and share in the joy of the children at play are cordially invited to the opening ceremony.