Biên Hòa Đông Phố is poised to become a vibrant administrative and commercial hub, seamlessly integrated with TOD principles. This visionary urban model champions net-zero emissions, fostering a sustainable synergy between urban architecture and the natural landscape, characterized by an expansive green space network connecting urban squares and parks to the Dong Nai River. A confluence of Heritage, Innovation, and Ecology, this development will redefine Biên Hòa as a premier destination for living and working within the Southeast region.
Context
Established in 1963, Biên Hòa 1 Industrial Park holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s first industrial zone and once stood as a powerful symbol of Southern Vietnam’s industrial prowess. Located within Biên Hòa City, the industrial capital of Đồng Nai province, the park resides on a crucial ecological corridor linking Trị An Lake to Cần Giờ Bay, strategically positioned as the province’s gateway along national economic corridors.
Vision
As urban areas rapidly evolve, the transformation of existing sites into new centers often results in the loss of unique local character. Biên Hòa Industrial Park, an emblem of the province’s development, requires a transformation that respects its legacy of prosperity while embracing modern innovation.
However, this ambitious project faces significant challenges, including the visual impact of existing high-voltage power lines, limited transportation links to the city’s northern and southern hubs, and the growing threat of urban flooding due to climate change.
Creating a gateway TOD center integrated with strategic public transport corridors and the regional ecological network offers a blueprint for a net-zero urban model, simultaneously addressing multiple challenges in the area. “Biên Hòa Đông Phố – the New Heart of the East,” spanning over 300 hectares and adopting a heritage-conscious approach, goes beyond mere redevelopment. It preserves industrial imprints, crafting a vibrant heritage space within the city’s core.
Public transport will cater to 70% of travel needs through the integration of three metro lines, forming a comprehensive TOD model. The addition of a bicycle network and the promotion of clean fuel vehicles will reduce CO2 emissions by an estimated 10,000 tons daily compared to traditional transportation methods. Furthermore, half a million square meters of public green parks will significantly contribute to CO2 absorption.
Strategies
To realize this compelling vision, we propose five groundbreaking planning strategies:
1. Great by Green – Unique Ecological Experience in the City Center
An ecological corridor system throughout the urban area will provide abundant green spaces for the community, restoring the environment impacted by industrial activities. This corridor will also function as a filtration system, improving water quality. To adapt to climate change, the area’s ground elevation will be raised, and diverse embankments incorporating adaptive strategies will be implemented, harmonizing with the riverside landscape.
2. River Re-connected – Facing the River, Vibrant on the Water
A variety of social, recreational, and sporting activities for residents will be designed along the ecological corridor, facilitated by the creation of public squares, outdoor stages, and waterfront spaces. Commercial and service developments, such as markets, piers, and pedestrian streets, will foster a dynamic urban ecosystem.
3. Heritage Celebrated – Honoring Heritage, Creating an Attractive New Destination
Significant historical structures within the former Biên Hòa 1 Industrial Park will be repurposed, forming a heritage axis connecting the riverfront and cultural routes, highlighting local identity and offering rich experiences. This will not only be a unique landmark but also a vibrant exploration, where past and present converge, preserving heritage and elevating local tourism.
4. Invisible Infrastructure – Hidden Infrastructure, Enhanced Connectivity
Strategically located as the gateway to Đồng Nai province and the Southeast region, the study area benefits from excellent accessibility but faces the challenge of integrating complex and large-scale infrastructure while creating a livable and welcoming urban environment. This plan addresses this challenge by utilizing terrain differences to implement semi-underground railway lines, which are cost-effective, preserve views of key landmarks and green spaces, and reduce noise pollution in surrounding areas.
5. Hill-top Hubs – Architectural Landmarks Creating a Distinctive Skyline
Newly developed architectural landmarks will form striking focal points in the cityscape, defining a distinctive skyline and adding a unique character to Biên Hòa Đông Phố, while fostering civic pride and creating a vibrant, recognizable city.
“The Bien Hoa Dong Pho redevelopment not only leverages strategic connectivity but also establishes a model urban area following the principles of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Prioritizing green mobility and emission reduction, the urban plan integrates a multimodal transportation system that seamlessly connects cycling and pedestrian networks with the regional public transit system. Additionally, green infrastructure is incorporated to enhance biodiversity and promote sustainable development. Thoughtful heritage conservation is integrated, creating unique destinations that preserve historical values while elevating urban living quality.” – Hai Pham, Director of Masterplan & Infrastructure of enCity.
Biên Hòa Đông Phố will be a bustling administrative and commercial hub, developed in synergy with public transport and reduced emissions, aiming for net zero. It will sustainably blend urban architecture with natural landscapes, featuring an extensive network of green spaces seamlessly connecting urban squares and parks to the Đồng Nai River. This convergence of Heritage, Innovation, and Ecology will position Biên Hòa as the premier destination for working and living in Southeast Vietnam.
| On March 25, the awards ceremony for the Planning Idea Competition for the Conversion of Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Park into an Urban – Commercial – Service Area, organised by Dong Nai Province, took place in Bien Hoa City. The enCity – Urban+ consortium was awarded First Prize by Dong Nai Province for the proposal “Bien Hoa Dong Pho.“ |
(Source: enCity)
