The 386-hectare site of the former Phnom Penh International Airport (Pochentong) is officially transitioning from a travel hub into a historic and cultural landmark. While rumors previously suggested the land might be sold, the Royal Government has confirmed its commitment to preserving the area for public and strategic use.
After moving the official international travel hub to the Techo International Airport, the government has initiated the ambitious “Pochentong Reborn” project and will transform life in the capital impactfully.
The “Sponge City” Concept
The centerpiece of the renovation is the Sponge City initiative. Unlike traditional urban development that uses concrete to push water away, a Sponge City uses green spaces, permeable soil, and reservoirs to absorb rainwater.
- Flood Relief: The park will act as a massive basin to capture excess rain, helping to prevent the flash floods that frequently affect the surrounding neighborhoods.
- Urban Cooling: By replacing heat-trapping tarmac with trees and water gardens, the project aims to lower the “urban heat island” effect in Phnom Penh.
A New “Central Park” for Cambodia
Architects plan to turn the airport into a world-class public space, drawing comparisons to New York’s Central Park.
- Recreation: The master plan includes jogging paths, sports zones, and over 25 different community activities.
- Green Lung: Currently, Phnom Penh has very little green space per person. This project will significantly boost the city’s air quality and provide a free recreational area for all residents, regardless of income.
- Oasis Garden: Designers intend to use local flowering trees to create seasonal “flower fields,” giving the city a vibrant, natural aesthetic.
Preserving History and Strategy
The site will not lose its connection to Cambodia’s past or its strategic importance:
- Aviation Museum: The former terminal buildings will be converted into museums and exhibition centers. These will honor the legacy of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk and his role in building the nation.
- Strategic Runway: A secondary runway will be kept intact for emergency or military use, ensuring the site remains a vital asset for national security.
Economic and Social Benefits
The transformation is designed to be a “modern economic engine” rather than just a park:
- Boosted Property Value: Similar to global cities, the presence of a massive urban park is expected to increase the value of surrounding real estate and benefit local businesses.
- Tourism: With unique attractions like an Aviation VR simulator and a Bamboo Train (inspired by Battambang), the site will become a major destination for international travelers.
- Sustainable Revenue: Unused terminal buildings will be repurposed into office spaces for rent, generating the funds needed to maintain the park without relying solely on the government budget.
Improving City Connections
The project aims to fix more than just the airport site. Future plans include:
- Better Traffic Flow: New shared streets will connect major roads like Veng Sreng and Russian Blvd, making it easier for residents to move through the area.
- Transit Hubs: The vision includes a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) hub to help modernize Phnom Penh’s public transport network.
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