Building a Modern Future

How Warsaw Balances Development with Cultural Heritage Interview by Morten Lindholm

Secretary of the city of Warsaw, Maciej Fijałkowski oversees the European Funds and Development Policy Office, IT Office, Legal Office, and Economic Development Office. Warsaw, rebuilt after World War II, blends historical preservation with modern development. Projects like the metro expansion and New Center enhance connectivity, while cultural investments strengthen its identity, making Warsaw a dynamic, green urban center.

Maciej Fijałkowski: Let me start off with a reflection about Warsaw. Warsaw's story is one of remarkable resilience and transformation. Virtually erased during World War II, with over 99% decrease of inhabitants, Warsaw was rebuilt not only to its former glory but also in a new and reimagined way. This incredible transformation sets it apart from many other cities with similar histories. Despite the devastation, Warsaw has grown from its post-war state, from what once resembling a village, into a modern capital.

The city's strength lies in its ability to balance forward-thinking development while honoring its past. Although not all of the post-war projects were perfect, many of them were designed with a focus on human needs and community spirit. Over the years, Warsaw has adapted, innovated, and progressed, by building on its unique heritage. Even with recent challenges, the city remains committed to moving forward, demonstrating a rare combination of flexibility and resilience.

ML: Warsaw is on a path to further its dynamic, sustainable development. Could you elaborate on the key projects currently underway that are driving this sustainability agenda, and how these projects align with the city's long-term environmental goals?

Warsaw is focusing on both large-scale and smaller projects to drive sustainable development. Some of the major undertakings include finishing some fairly significant infrastructure projects, like the underground water reservoirs to manage heavy rainfall. This project is crucial given the increasing frequency of extreme weather. While these projects are costly and not always visible, they are vital to the city’s resilience. At the same time, the city invests in smaller, less obvious projects, all aimed at sustainability.

Warsaw is also modernizing public utilities, schools, and buildings to meet ESG standards. Additionally, investments in greener public transport, and a reduction in carbon emissions from city heating systems (mainly through investments in reducing outdated solid fuel or coal-fired furnaces), underscore its commitment to sustainability, with improvements already noticeable in the city's air quality. The city works with partners to encourage similar steps, emphasizing long-term environmental responsibility.

The New Center of Warsaw project is a significant undertaking aimed at transforming the heart of the city. We have already seen some significant changes. What are the plans for the future?

The New Center of Warsaw project aims to reshape the city center by balancing the needs of various groups, including pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users. Historically the city center was dominated by car traffic, but is now evolving into a more accessible and sustainable space. Significant enhancements include the addition of almost 800 km of new bike lanes and expanded public spaces, featuring high-quality infrastructure designed to meet the needs of modern users. The city is also investing in revitalizing key squares and corridors, such as Plac Defilad, now referred to as the new Plac Centralny, as well as Plac Powstańców, Złota and Zgoda streets, Chmielna and Bracka streets, and the pedestrian-bicycle bridge completed this year. Additionally, there are private-public partnerships (PPP), like the electric vehicle initiatives. By modernizing our central railway connections, we will further enhance Warsaw’s infrastructure, positioning it as a more connected and vibrant urban center.

Tram to the Western Railway Station - Bitwy Warszawskiej 1920 Street

The construction of Metro lines 3 and 4 is a major infrastructure project. How will the expansion of the metro network improve connectivity within Warsaw, and what are the expected benefits for residents and commuters?

The expansion builds on the success of previous metro projects, by improving connectivity and the daily commute. Line 3 is expected to begin construction within the next few years and Line 4 is already in the early planning stages. The clear benefits, with the Warsaw metro, is that it’s the most efficient mode of transport, capable of carrying large volumes of passengers and providing a more reliable service than other forms of transit, especially buses. The new metro lines will shorten travel times, boost the transportation system's capacity, reliability, and comfort, and support a more resilient and modern urban transit network for Warsaw's expanding population.

M3 new Metro station on Warszawa Wschodnia train station - visualization

Warsaw is recognized for its ability to attract talent, which in turn attracts investment. What specific strategies is the city employing to continue attracting and retaining top talent?

Warsaw had expected an increase of roughly 200,000 residents within a 30-year period, but this surge occurred in just 2 months following the outbreak of the Ukraine war. The city is still adapting to effectively manage this growth. For example, many people are relocating to the surrounding metropolitan areas, easing pressure on housing within the city itself.

Warsaw officially has 1.8 million inhabitants, but the actual number of people living and “using” the city is closer to 2.2 or 2.3 million, this is thanks in part to its growing appeal to international talent as well as its increasing attractiveness. To support this influx, the city is continuously improving its infrastructure and public services. With modern amenities, a high quality of life, and a vibrant job market, Warsaw has become a highly desirable place to live and work, attracting both talent and investment.

Projects like the Sinfonia Varsovia Center and the new elementary school on Konstruktorska Street reflect Warsaw's investment in cultural and educational infrastructure. How do these projects fit into the broader vision for the city’s development?

The Sinfonia Varsovia Center, and the new elementary school on Konstruktorska Street, are key examples of Warsaw’s commitment to the development of cultural and educational infrastructure.

Some of these investments are of the higher metropolitan functions, which enhance the city's identity and appeal to residents and visitors alike, improving the quality of life through greater access to arts and culture. The investment in this school project exemplifies a successful PPP, highlighting the city’s commitment to addressing the educational needs of its growing population. Such projects enhance the city’s social fabric and emphasize its focus on sustainable, inclusive growth.

With the ongoing development of new tram lines and the completion of the pedestrian-bicycle bridge, are more significant changes to Warsaw's landscape and green mobility infrastructure expected?

Warsaw continues to prioritize its green mobility infrastructure with its projects. We are progressing with additional tram sections, such as the one near the Western Station, which will include the first underground rail and tram station. This project will create a highly efficient transport hub, linking the city’s tramways and metropolitan rail connections.

As Warsaw modernizes its infrastructure, more initiatives like this are expected in the coming years, improving connectivity and promoting sustainable transportation. The city is also constantly reviewing its priorities to ensure future projects align with evolving needs and available resources.

Maciej Fijałkowski

Secretary of the city of Warsaw

Born in 1978, a graduate of Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, currently serving as Secretary of the City of Warsaw. Employed at Warsaw City Hall since 2007, responsible for coordinating economic and innovation policies, managing the investment budget, overseeing digital transformation, EU funds, public transportation, and fostering metropolitan cooperation.