«It has significantly changed people's desire to live and make their city better»: how the city of Kazan has become a magnet for people

Ilsur Metshin shared successful experience at the «Small Homeland – the Strength of Russia» Forum

Not only financial investments allowed creating a comfortable living environment in Kazan. A dedicated team contributed to the development of the city, in collaboration with the republic's authorities, worked together with residents and business representatives to develop a strategy for city development based on the experiences of world capitals. This was reported at the plenary session of the 2nd All-Russian Municipal Forum «Small Homeland – the Strength of Russia» by Ilsur Metshin, the Mayor of Kazan.

Starting his speech, he reminded that Russian President Vladimir Putin, at a press conference dedicated to the results of 2024, called Kazan one of the best cities in Europe. «Of course, we are proud of these words, at the same time it is a huge responsibility to meet this high assessment», –the Mayor stressed.

The Mayor noted that Kazan became one of the leaders in housing construction in 2024, with 1.4 million square meters commissioned. «When I visit any city, I always asks about the number of square meters of housing built per person per year. It is the dream of any leader to build more than one square meter per person», – the Mayor shared.

Kazan has been leading in the construction of social facilities for 10 years. During this time, as many as 91 kindergartens, 25 schools, 18 cultural centers, a youth center, five hospitals, and 16 polyclinics were built. Additionally, 23 sports venues were constructed, and 80% of youth policy institutions were renovated.

According to Ilsur Metshin, the renovation of existing apartment buildings is also important. Since 2008, 70% of all such buildings have been renovated in Kazan. The Our Yard republican program has been successfully implemented in the city: driveways, sidewalks, lighting, playgrounds, and sports grounds being renovated. In just 5 years, 2,278 yards have been renovated. Residents have an opportunity to vote online for the reconstruction of the yards, parks, and squares, as well as to express their wishes for the city.

A comfortable urban environment attracts tourists to the capital. «We are gradually moving towards our goal of attracting 5 million tourists per year», – said the Mayor.

Major international events played a huge role in the development of the city: the 2013 Summer Universiade, the FINA Aquatics Championships, 2018 World Cup, WorldSkills Championships, the Games of the Future, the BRICS Games and Summit, the BRICS+ Association of Cities and Municipalities and other events. According to the Mayor, these events allowed to speed up the repair of roads, the airport, sports venues,
parks, hotels and other infrastructure.