Introduction
In a recent announcement, Escon Corporation, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, declared a major revitalization of Kitahiro Park, located near the JR Kitahiroshima Station. This initiative aligns with the company's ongoing efforts to enhance the area surrounding the station, particularly as a complement to the forthcoming ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO, home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters baseball team.
The park, established over 50 years ago, has suffered from aging facilities and shifting user needs. To address these issues, Escon is collaborating with the city of Kitahiroshima to transform the park into a vibrant public space that caters to all generations—from children to seniors. With a projected opening in November 2026, the renovation coincides with the handover of the adjacent residential complex, Le JADE Hokkaido Kitahiroshima.
Background and Purpose of Renovation
The renovation project stems from a broader initiative by Escon and the city to stimulate the local economy through various developments, including the commercial facility tonarie Kitahiroshima and the ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO Hotel. These developments, alongside a planned condominium, aim to create a community hub that enhances both accessibility and engagement.
The need for this renovation is underscored by the park's deteriorating condition—over the years, trees have become overgrown, and facility conditions have declined to a point where the park's inherent charm is not fully realized. Therefore, the goal is to elevate the quality of life for residents by creating a park that is both accessible and appealing.
Concept and Scope of the Renovation
The vision driving the park’s redesign revolves around creating an entrance park that excites everyone. In addition to physical improvements, the plan involves fostering diverse interactions via activities, events, and educational opportunities. The design will focus on five main themes: natural environment, relaxation, activity, events, and educational growth.
Key features will include an entrance plaza in the northeast, an event plaza adjacent to public spaces in the southeast, and a central lawn equipped with a symbolic stage. A new pathway called the "PARK SPINE" will cut diagonally across the park, creating avenues for casual exploration. Meanwhile, the PARK PROMENADE will offer a passage between the park and the residential complex, incorporating existing trees and a playground for children.
Following the renovation, Kitahiro Park will feature pedestrian bridges and integrated access from the commercial areas without the need for street crossings, enhancing visitor flow and creating a seamless experience.
Details and Timeline
- - Location: Kitahiro Park, Sagamachi 2-chome 51, Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido
- - Area: 26,523 square meters
- - Ownership: Kitahiroshima City
- - Start of Construction: April 2026 (planned)
- - Opening Date: November 2026 (planned)
Community Impact and Future Directions
With these ongoing developments, Escon aims to foster continuous engagement and vitality around the station and park area. The company is committed to sustainable urban development practices that not only revitalize public spaces but also enrich community life in Kitahiroshima. The collaborative nature of this project, utilizing corporate partnerships for local revitalization, is emblematic of a modern approach to town planning, aiming for a future where local areas thrive as community hubs.
For more information or queries related to this project, please contact the Corporate Headquarters Public Relations Department at 03-6230-9308.
Note: The visualizations presented are speculative, based on design plans and may be subject to modifications owing to regulatory requirements and construction dynamics.