Ho Chi Minh City to Commence Collection of Sidewalk Rentals Starting September

Starting from September, Ho Chi Minh City authorities are planning to rent out sidewalks in various locations for parking and the organization of cultural and commercial activities. In a decision signed on Wednesday, it was specified that only streets with a minimum width of 1.5 meters will be considered for this initiative, ensuring sufficient space for both pedestrians and vehicles.

Although the decision does not provide specific rental rates, the Department of Transport has proposed a range of VND50,000-350,000 (US$2.11-14.80) per square meter for parking and VND20,000-100,000 for other activities. The collected rents will be allocated towards the maintenance of streets and sidewalks. The department will release further details regarding specific locations, rental rates, and other relevant information.

Ho Chi Minh City has over 4,800 streets that are wider than five meters. However, nearly 2,600 of these streets currently lack space for pedestrians due to illegal occupation of sidewalks. This sidewalk rental program aims to address this issue by reclaiming and properly utilizing sidewalk areas for the benefit of both pedestrians and the city’s overall infrastructure.