FROM VIENNA TO NOVI SAD – IDEAS FOR HUMAN-CENTERED GREEN CITIES

The Мember of the City Council for Ecology, Energy Efficiency and Environmental Protection Vanja Petković visited Vienna from September 30 to October 2 as part of a study visit within the program “Strengthening Sustainable and Resilient Urban Development in Serbia”, organized by the World Bank with the support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).

- Vienna has shown us how well-planned public spaces and green infrastructure are essential for quality of life. That experience is something we can apply in Novi Sad, which is already moving in that direction. We are already implementing important projects in Novi Sad, such as the revitalization of the industrial heritage in the Chinese Quarter, transforming a former industrial zone into a space for contemporary cultural content, as well as the development of bicycle paths toward Čenej, Futog, and Begeč. In addition, the digital platform ‘Your City’ enables citizens to actively participate in shaping city policies, especially when it comes to managing green areas and public spaces. I would particularly highlight the revitalization of the Almaški district, which combines the preservation of cultural heritage with modern approaches to public space design, inspired by what we saw in Vienna’s historic neighborhoods. Novi Sad has the potential to become a city made for people, and experiences like this one in Vienna are extremely valuable to us on that journey -said Vanja Petković.

During workshops, panels, and field visits, Petković was introduced to innovative approaches to urban development, from redesigning public squares and integrated mobility, to climate-resilient streets and sustainable housing policies.

The program “Strengthening Sustainable and Resilient Urban Development in Serbia” is implemented by the World Bank in partnership with the Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, and the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

Novi Sad, October 2, 2025