Gdańsk Digest 2024

The most important news from Gdańsk for 2025.

Infrastructure, inwestycje i projekty, które zmieniły Gdańsk

Rok 2024 stał się czasem aktywnego rozwoju i ważnych decyzji dla Gdańska. Miasto kontynuuje wzmacnianie swojej pozycji jako jednego z głównych centrów gospodarczych Polski, jednocześnie przekształcając przestrzeń miejską, rozwijając transport, modernizując infrastrukturę i przygotowując się do nowych projektów na dużą skalę.

It was a year when Gdańsk simultaneously looked to the past and the future. The city celebrated important historical dates, developed cultural initiatives, while also betting on modern technologies, ecology, and new transportation solutions

At the end of the year, the city authorities noted an increase in the number of residents, business development, record figures for the airport and tourism, as well as the implementation of large investment projects. According to the official city status report, in 2024, approximately 488.6 thousand people lived in Gdańsk, the number of registered enterprises exceeded 100 thousand, and the airport served a record 6.7 million passengers.

The main challenge for the city has been maintaining balance: Gdańsk needed to continue developing rapidly while also remaining a comfortable city for its residents


Gdańsk continues to grow: more residents, businesses, and tourists

One of the main outcomes of 2024 was the confirmation that Gdańsk remains one of the most attractive cities in Poland

Unlike many large cities in the country, where a decrease in population is observed, Gdańsk has continued to increase its number of residents. Over the course of the year, the city reached a figure of nearly 489 thousand residents. (Media Gdańsk)

The growth is related to several factors:

  • the development of the labor market;
  • the presence of universities;
  • investments by large companies;
  • the city's appeal to internal migrants
  • the quality of the urban environment.

Jednocześnie działalność przedsiębiorcza nadal rosła. W 2024 roku w mieście zarejestrowano ponad 100 000 podmiotów gospodarczych — stało się to jednym z rekordowych wyników.

Dla Gdańska oznacza to wzmocnienie roli nie tylko centrum turystycznego, ale także biznesowego regionu


Port Czystej Energii: jeden z największych projektów ekologicznych w mieście

One of the most important projects in recent years has been the construction of Port Czystej Energii — a modern waste processing and energy production complex

W 2024 roku projekt wszedł w ostatni etap realizacji. Dla miasta była to jedna z największych inwestycji ekologicznych.

The main task of the facility is the processing of waste that cannot be reused and the production of energy from it

Before the complex was established, a significant portion of such waste was sent to landfills. The new facility is expected to change the approach to waste management and bring Gdańsk closer to European environmental standards

Miasto postrzegało Port Czystej Energii nie tylko jako obiekt infrastrukturalny, ale także jako element długoterminowej polityki klimatycznej.

The project should help:

  • reduce the volume of waste disposal;
  • to produce heat and electricity;
  • aby poprawić efektywność systemu zarządzania odpadami miejskimi

The city report noted that the construction of Port Czystej Energii was completed in 2024. (Media Gdańsk)


Port Gdańsk i Baltic Hub: miasto wzmacnia swoją pozycję w Europie

The year 2024 confirmed that the port remains one of the main engines of development for Gdańsk

Gospodarka portowa wpływa nie tylko na transport i logistykę, ale także na rynek pracy, inwestycje i międzynarodowe znaczenie miasta.

Baltic Hub odgrywa szczególnie ważną rolę — największy terminal kontenerowy na Morzu Bałtyckim

The development of port infrastructure allows Gdańsk to compete with the largest European ports and increase its significance in international supply chains

For the city, this means:

  • new jobs;
  • development of logistics;
  • growth in investor interest;
  • strengthening Poland’s role in trade.

However, the development of the port also creates new challenges. Gdańsk needs to simultaneously improve its transport infrastructure so that the increase in cargo traffic does not lead to additional problems for residents


Transport: the city is preparing for new routes

One of the main topics of 2024 remained transportation

Gdańsk continued to develop public transport and prepare new projects that should improve connections between districts

Throughout the year, the city invested in infrastructure modernization

  • tram projects were developed;
  • the streets were updated;
  • pedestrian routes were improved;
  • new solutions for cyclists have emerged.

Among the important projects are the preparation for the construction of the PKM Południe railway connection, the development of the Gdańsk-South — Wrzesińska route, as well as plans for the construction of new roads and transport links. (Media Gdańsk)

A particularly important issue remains the connection of the rapidly growing southern districts of the city with the center.

Dzielnice Jasień, Ujeścisko-Łostowice oraz inne obszary są aktywnie rozwijane, więc obciążenie komunikacyjne nadal rośnie.


New districts are growing faster than infrastructure

One of the main problems in Gdańsk in 2024 has been the development of new residential areas

Miasto nadal się rozwija, ale wraz z nowymi budynkami pojawiają się pytania:

  • are there enough schools;
  • are there enough kindergartens;
  • is it convenient to get to the center;
  • are there green areas nearby.

Many residents of the new neighborhoods note that housing construction often occurs faster than the development of necessary infrastructure

Ten problem jest charakterystyczny dla wielu europejskich miast: wzrost liczby ludności wymaga nie tylko nowych mieszkań, ale także całkowitego środowiska miejskiego.

In 2024, Gdańsk continued to work on addressing these issues. New educational facilities were being built in the city, public spaces were being developed, and work on long-term district development plans was ongoing. (Media Gdańsk)


Biskupia Górka: the return of a historic district

One of the notable urban revitalization projects is Biskupia Górka

Ta historyczna dzielnica od dawna potrzebowała rewitalizacji. W 2024 roku kontynuowano prace nad przywracaniem budynków, poprawą infrastruktury i tworzeniem bardziej komfortowej przestrzeni dla mieszkańców.

The revitalization of such areas is an important part of the city's policy: Gdańsk strives to develop not only new districts but also to preserve the historical parts of the city

Such projects allow for simultaneous:

  • to preserve architectural heritage;
  • improve the quality of life;
  • to restore attractiveness to old neighborhoods.

As part of the update of Biskupia Górka, renovations of municipal buildings and the development of public infrastructure have been completed


Długie Pobrzeże: update of the symbol of Gdańsk

One of the most notable urban constructions of 2024 is the reconstruction of Długie Pobrzeże — the famous waterfront along the Motława River

To jedno z najbardziej rozpoznawalnych miejsc w mieście, odwiedzane przez miliony turystów każdego roku

Prace miały na celu przywrócenie i wzmocnienie przestrzeni historycznej, zwiększenie bezpieczeństwa oraz poprawę warunków do spacerów.

The project was of great importance not only for tourists but also for residents

Gdańsk strives to preserve the atmosphere of the historic center while simultaneously adapting it to modern requirements

The update of the waterfront has become an example of how the city is trying to connect historical heritage with modern development


Housing: the main issue for residents

In 2024, one of the most discussed topics remained the situation in the real estate market

As in many large Polish cities, the cost of housing in Gdańsk continued to rise

Reasons:

  • high demand;
  • the city’s attractiveness;
  • limited offer in popular areas;
  • development of the short-term rental market.

It is especially difficult for young people and families who want to buy their own flat.

The city continued to develop programs for the construction of municipal housing and support for housing initiatives

In 2024, 90 apartments were built in the TBS system, and dozens of municipal apartments underwent major renovations. (Media Gdańsk)


Gdańsk Airport Sets Record

One of the economic successes of the year has been the performance of Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport

W 2024 roku lotnisko obsłużyło około 6,7 miliona pasażerów — to była rekordowa liczba. Wzrost wyniósł około 13,7% w porównaniu do poprzedniego okresu.

The growth of air traffic shows that Gdańsk is becoming an increasingly important European destination

More flights means:

  • more tourists;
  • new opportunities for business;
  • strengthening international ties.

At the same time, the development of aviation also raises discussions about its impact on the environment and noise levels in areas near the airport.


First conclusion of the year: Gdańsk is accelerating

The main conclusion of the first part of 2024 can be formulated as follows:

Gdańsk continues to grow faster than ever and is becoming one of the key cities in Central Europe

The year 2024 has shown several trends:

  • the port strengthens the city's international role
  • projekty ekologiczne stają się częścią polityki miejskiej
  • new districts require faster infrastructure development
  • transport becomes the main challenge;
  • historical spaces are getting a new life.


Gdańsk-2024: a year of great changes, new investments, and the fight for the city’s future

Część 2. Nowa scena polityczna, kultura, ekologia i życie mieszkańców

After major infrastructure projects and economic changes, the main topic in Gdańsk for the second half of 2024 has become questions about the city's future: who will manage it in the coming years, how to maintain the pace of development, and what modern Gdańsk should be like for its residents

Rok 2024 stał się nie tylko rokiem budowy dla miasta, ale także rokiem zmian politycznych, wydarzeń kulturalnych i nowych inicjatyw społecznych.

On one hand, Gdańsk continued to strengthen its position as one of the most successful cities in Poland. On the other hand, residents were increasingly paying attention to the problems that accompany rapid growth: housing costs, transportation load, and the need for the development of new districts.


Elections for Mayor: Aleksandra Dulkiewicz Received a New Mandate

One of the most important political events of the year was the local government elections

W kwietniu 2024 roku mieszkańcy Gdańska ponownie wybrali Aleksandrę Dulkiewicz na prezydenta miasta. Wygrała w pierwszej turze, zdobywając poparcie większości wyborców.

Dla administracji miejskiej wyniki wyborów potwierdziły kontynuację dotychczasowego kursu: rozwój infrastruktury, wsparcie programów społecznych oraz przyciąganie inwestycji

Dulkiewicz leads the city after a period of significant changes that began during Paweł Adamowicz’s tenure. One of the main tasks of the new term has been to continue the projects already started — from transportation to the modernization of districts.

Jednocześnie nowa kadencja rządów przynosi nowe oczekiwania ze strony mieszkańców. Obywatele coraz częściej domagają się nie tylko dużych inwestycji, ale także rozwiązań codziennych problemów:

  • improvements in public transport;
  • availability of housing;
  • development of schools and kindergartens;
  • preservation of green areas.

35 years of freedom: Gdańsk is once again at the center of historical memory

The year 2024 held special significance for Gdańsk due to the 35th anniversary of the first partially free elections in Poland after the communist period

The city traditionally plays an important role in the history of the country’s democratic changes. It was here that the «Solidarity» movement was born, which became one of the symbols of the struggle for freedom in Central Europe.

Throughout the year, events dedicated to civil liberties, democracy, and historical memory took place in Gdańsk.

Special attention was given to projects related to the legacy of the opposition movement and the role of ordinary citizens in changing the country

For the city, this is not only a historical date but also a part of modern identity

Gdańsk continues to actively utilize its past in cultural policy, highlighting the link between history and contemporary social values


The International Hanseatic Congress: Gdańsk has once again become a city of international dialogue

One of the important international events of 2024 was the 44th International Hanseatic Congress.

Gdańsk hosted representatives from cities that are part of the modern Hanseatic League, uniting dozens of European cities with a shared trading and historical tradition

The event took place under the slogan "Zmiana zaczyna się tutaj".

Dla Gdańska było to nie tylko wydarzenie kulturalne, ale także okazja do zaprezentowania się jako nowoczesne europejskie centrum

The city has utilized its historical role as a Hanseatic port to emphasize its current significance in the economy, culture, and international cooperation


Culture: Gdańsk strengthens its position as a cultural center

In 2024, the city continued to develop its cultural infrastructure

One of the important directions has been the preservation of historical heritage and the creation of new spaces for residents.

Among the notable events:

  • the opening of a new library in Stogi;
  • updating historical sites;
  • development of urban cultural programs;
  • new exhibitions and educational initiatives.

Special attention was given to historical sites

One of these projects was the reconstruction of the fortress Wisłoujście (Twierdza Wisłoujście), one of the most important monuments of defensive architecture in Gdańsk. After the renovation, the site gained new opportunities for hosting cultural events and engaging with visitors.


Europejskie Centrum Solidarności pozostaje jednym z symboli miasta

Centrum Solidarności Europejskiej nadal jest jedną z głównych instytucji kulturalnych i edukacyjnych w mieście.

In 2024, interest in the topics of the history of "Solidarity," civil rights, and democratic changes remained high

Dla wielu turystów i mieszkańców to miejsce stało się nie tylko muzeum, ale także przestrzenią do dyskusji na temat współczesnych problemów społecznych.

Gdańsk continues to build its international image around the idea of a city of freedom — a place where history is used to talk about the future


Edukacja: miliardy na szkoły i rozwój dzieci

One of the largest items of municipal expenditure in 2024 remained education

The city has allocated over 2 billion zlotys to this area. The funds were used for the maintenance of schools, modernization of buildings, development of educational programs, and support for children.

One of the main tasks has been the development of infrastructure in areas where the population is actively growing.

To szczególnie prawda w nowych dzielnicach mieszkaniowych, gdzie młode rodziny muszą zapewnić miejsca w szkołach i przedszkolach.

Miasto kontynuuje budowę nowych obiektów edukacyjnych, w tym szkoły w rejonie Morenowe Wzgórze.


Ecology: green Gdańsk is becoming one of the main destinations

Environmental policy has become one of the important topics of 2024

The city continued programs to increase the number of green areas, protect trees, and adapt to climate change

Throughout the year, city institutions and companies planted over 10,000 trees. New natural monuments also emerged, and the air quality monitoring system was developed.

One of the main environmental projects is the already mentioned Port Czystej Energii.

Jednak polityka środowiskowa również wywołuje dyskusje.

Residents often advocate for the preservation of green spaces in areas where construction is actively developing. The main question is how to reconcile the growth of the city with the protection of nature.


Bicycles and pedestrians: the city continues to transform its transport culture

Gdańsk continued to develop infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians

In 2024, the city invested in new sidewalks, street lighting, and improving traffic safety

Zbudowano i zmodernizowano ponad 22 kilometry chodników, a także zrealizowano projekty mające na celu poprawę przejść i dostępności urbanistycznej.

The popular educational program "Rowerowy Maj" continued, which encourages children and parents to use bicycles in their daily lives

In 2024, tens of thousands of people participated in the program


Sports: the stadium has taken on a new role

An important event was the agreement that made Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk the home stadium of the Polish women's national football team

To wzmocniło sportową rolę miasta i nadało nowe znaczenie stadionowi.

Previously, the venue was primarily known as a place for major football matches, but in 2024, the city aimed to use it more broadly—for sports events and international gatherings. (Media Gdańsk)


Main changes for residents in 2024

If we set aside large projects and look at everyday life, the main changes of the year appeared as follows

More digital services

Miasto kontynuuje przekształcanie usług rządowych w formę online. Około 45% usług administracyjnych stało się dostępnych w formie cyfrowej.

New public spaces

The creation of meeting places for residents continued: libraries, neighbor clubs, and local initiatives

Revitalization of Old Districts

In addition to new districts, the city has invested in the renovation of historical areas

Support for social programs

Programs to assist families, elderly people, and local organization initiatives continued.


Results of the second part: a city between the past and the future

The year 2024 has shown that Gdańsk is developing not only through construction and investments.

Miasto nadal kształtuje swój własny model rozwoju

  • to maintain the historical role of the city of freedom
  • develop modern technologies;
  • improve the quality of the urban environment;
  • to support culture and education.

But along with successes, there are questions that will define the coming years:

  • whether housing will remain affordable;
  • will the infrastructure keep up with the population growth
  • will it be possible to maintain a balance between construction and nature

The main issues of the year, the daily life of residents, and what Gdańsk has become after 2024

The year 2024 showed two sides of Gdańsk.

On one hand, the city continued to develop: new facilities were being built, the economy was growing, the flow of tourists was increasing, and new cultural initiatives were emerging. Gdańsk was strengthening its position as one of the most attractive cities in Poland and an important center on the Baltic Sea.

On the other hand, along with the growth, problems arose that residents discussed more and more frequently. The city became more expensive, new districts were putting pressure on the infrastructure, and development required increasingly complex solutions

The main question of 2024 was: how to ensure that the success of Gdańsk is felt not only by investors and tourists, but above all by the residents themselves?


Housing: one of the most challenging topics for residents

As in other major Polish cities, the issue of housing in 2024 remained one of the main concerns

Gdańsk has maintained its appeal for buyers thanks to the sea, a developed economy, universities, and a high quality of life. This has supported a high demand for apartments

However, the increase in demand also meant an increase in prices

To było szczególnie zauważalne w popularnych miejscach:

  • Wrzeszcz;
  • Oliwa;
  • City Center;
  • Przymorze;
  • districts near the sea.

For many young residents, purchasing their own apartment has become an increasingly challenging task

At the same time, new residential areas were developing — primarily in the southern part of the city. Modern complexes with apartments at more affordable prices were emerging there, but residents faced another problem: the infrastructure often could not keep up with the construction.


New districts: more apartments, but schools, roads, and transport are needed

One of the main challenges for Gdańsk remains the development of areas where thousands of new residents have emerged in recent years

The districts of Jasień, Ujeścisko-Łostowice, Orunia Górna, and other parts of the southern city continue to grow rapidly

For many families, these are attractive places:

  • new houses;
  • modern apartments;
  • a calmer environment;
  • proximity to nature.

But along with this, questions arise:

  • are there enough places in schools;
  • is it convenient to get to the center;
  • are there enough bus routes;
  • are there any medical facilities nearby;
  • are there enough parks.

In 2024, residents of these areas regularly pointed out that the city should develop not only housing but also a complete urban environment

Eksperci nazywają to jednym z głównych zadań nadchodzących lat: nowe osiedla powinny stać się nie tylko miejscami do życia, ale pełnoprawnymi dzielnicami z własną infrastrukturą.


Transport: główne wyzwanie szybko rozwijającego się miasta

Despite investments in public transport, the issue of getting around the city remained one of the most discussed.

The main challenge is the imbalance between the growth of individual districts and the capabilities of the transport system

Morning and evening rush hours were still associated with traffic jams on the main routes.

A particularly difficult situation was observed between the southern districts and the central part of the city.

Residents were expecting the acceleration of major transport projects that are supposed to improve connectivity between the districts.

Among the long-term solutions:

  • development of the tram network;
  • the construction of new transport corridors;
  • development of railway communication;
  • improvement of transfer hubs.

The city continues to focus on public transport, however, changing the transportation habits of residents takes time


Turystyka: zaleta i jednocześnie wyzwanie

Gdańsk remains one of the most popular tourist cities in Poland

The historic center, the Baltic Sea, museums, architecture, and cultural events attract millions of visitors every year

The year 2024 confirmed that tourism is an important part of the urban economy

He brings:

  • income for restaurants and hotels;
  • jobs;
  • international recognition of the city.

Jednakże, w związku z tym, mieszkańcy centralnych dzielnic nadal mówią o trudnościach:

  • the increase in rental prices;
  • a large number of short-term rentals;
  • seasonal increase in traffic on the streets;
  • noise.

Gdańsk needs to find a balance between being open to tourists and maintaining a comfortable life for its permanent residents


Gdańsk Zoo: 70 Years of Operation and New Achievements

One of the highlights of 2024 was the 70th anniversary of Gdańsk Zoo

Over seven decades, it has transformed from a small urban facility into a modern center for animal protection and environmental education

Today, the zoo participates in international programs for the conservation of rare species and fulfills not only an entertainment function but also a scientific one

Throughout the year, visitors were drawn in by news of animal births, new residents, and educational events.

Special attention was given to species that are endangered

Dla mieszkańców Gdańska zoo pozostaje jednym z najpopularniejszych miejsc rekreacyjnych, a dla miasta jest częścią jego polityki ekologicznej i edukacyjnej.


Gdańsk University i Politechnika: miasto wiedzy

Edukacja pozostaje jedną z najważniejszych zalet Gdańska

Large universities operate in the city, attracting students from Poland and other countries

Gdańska Uczelnia i Politechnika Gdańska kontynuują rozwój dziedzin związanych z nowoczesnymi technologiami, gospodarką morską, energetyką i badaniami.

W 2024 roku szczególną wagę przyłożono do specjalności związanych z przyszłymi branżami:

  • artificial intelligence;
  • energy;
  • engineering;
  • biotechnology;
  • marine technologies.

For the city, universities are not only educational institutions but also an important factor in economic development

Young professionals support the growth of local companies and attract new investments.


Safety and Quality of the Urban Environment

In 2024, mieszkańcy nadal dyskutowali o problemach z bezpieczeństwem w mieście

Main topics:

  • street lighting;
  • pedestrian safety;
  • road conditions;
  • traffic organization.

The city continued to develop projects aimed at improving the urban environment

Special attention was given to areas where infrastructure updates were needed

Local initiatives of residents played a significant role: many changes occurred thanks to civic project budgets and the activity of local communities


What residents discussed the most in 2024

If we highlight the main topics that appeared most frequently in urban discussions, we get the following list:

1. Cost of Living

The rise in housing prices, rent, and services has become one of the main issues

2. Transport

Residents were expecting faster solutions for the areas that are actively developing.

3. Preservation of Greenery

Residents increasingly advocated for the protection of parks, forested areas, and trees

4. Development of New Districts

The main question is whether the urban infrastructure is keeping up with the construction

5. The Balance of Tourism and City Life

Gdańsk wants to remain a popular tourist destination while maintaining comfort for its residents


The main achievements of Gdańsk in 2024

If we gather the most important events of the year, several key points can be highlighted

1. Completion of important infrastructure projects

The city continued the modernization of transport, public spaces, and environmental facilities

2. Development of the port economy

Gdańsk has strengthened its status as one of the main port centers of the Baltic Sea

3. Growth of International Significance

The airport, business, and culture have strengthened the city's connections with Europe

4. Support for Historical Identity

Gdańsk continued to develop its image as a city of freedom and democracy

5. Investments in Residents

Education, social programs, and the urban environment remained important areas


Summary: What Gdańsk Became After 2024

The year 2024 has confirmed: Gdańsk is undergoing a period of profound changes

To już nie tylko piękne, historyczne miasto nad morzem, do którego przyjeżdżają turyści. To jest:

  • a major European port;
  • business and technology center;
  • university town;
  • a place for large ecological projects;
  • one of the most attractive cities in Poland for living

But with success comes new demands.

Residents want to see a city that develops not only in terms of investment figures but also in everyday quality of life

Gdańsk faces several key challenges:

  • make housing more accessible;
  • improve transportation;
  • to preserve green areas;
  • develop new districts comprehensively;
  • to maintain a balance between tourists and residents

The year 2024 has become a year of strengthening positions for Gdańsk. The city has entered a new phase — a phase where the main question is no longer just growth, but the quality of that growth.

To decyzje podjęte w nadchodzących latach zdeterminuje, czym Gdańsk stanie się w przyszłości: udanym europejskim centrum, komfortowym do życia, czy miastem, które rozwija się szybciej, niż może zadbać o swoich mieszkańców.



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