‘Spring Flower’ footbridge in Nanshan District in Shenzhen drew a whopping investment of RMB 50 million.

Shenzhen, the southern boom-town of Guangdong, was recently voted mainland China’s most pedestrian-friendly city, according to a report by the Natural Resources Defense Council, a New York-based environmental advocacy group.

Guangzhou followed Shenzhen, ranking No. 4. The council surveyed a total of 35 cities in China; Shenzhen scored 67.83 points out of a possible one hundred in terms of walking safety, comfort, convenience and government management, reported Jing Daily on September 11.

Although not part of mainland China, Hong Kong took the top prize for being a walkable city, based on its sound infrastructure and public facilities. Shanghai placed 3rd, while Dalian placed 5th.

A number of specific locations were also recommended by the newspaper. The 14 areas include: Qian Hai, Shekou, Nanshan commercial culture center, Gaoxin District, Huaqiao City, Windows on the World, Shenzhen Bay, Chegong Temple, Central District, Huanggang Port, Huaqiang North, Luohu commercial district, Shatou Jiao and Daxiao Meisha.

Many local residents, however, continue to complain that Shenzhen’s facilities are less than ideal, citing narrow sidewalks, uneven surfaces, poor traffic lights and maintenance as primary problems.

What do you think? Does Shenzhen live up to being rewarded as mainland China’s most pedestrian-friendly city?

Photos: Shenzhen Jianxu Testing Engineering Services Co Ltd