Recently, teachers and students from the Urban and Rural Planning major of HXIT presented four renovation plans – completed after four months of efforts – to residents and staff of Gejiaying Community in Liangdao Street, Wuhan. Covering the continuation of historical context, reconstruction of public spaces, improvement of fire safety, and development of a 15-minute living circle, the plans were presented for “people's review”.

        Launched in June 2025, with community support, the team first conducted in-depth research through on-site mapping and resident interviews. This allowed them to identify key challenges of Gejiaying Community – a core area of ancient Wuchang City – including narrow lanes, aging facilities, and limited public spaces.Based on these findings, resident interviews, and mapping, they proposed the concept of "cultural context as the soul, space renewal, and multi-stakeholder governance". Under the theme"Seven Scenes Weave Cultural Context, Alleys Embrace New Life", the team designed cultural signs, activated historical buildings, and planned a "community public service hub" to create a "5-10-15 minute living circle". Detailed renovations, including upgrading street facades and public drying areas, were also included.

        Guided by the principle of "joint construction, governance, and benefit-sharing", the project outlined short-term, medium-term, and long-term implementation paths. Secretary Wang of Gejiaying Community praised the plans for blending professional insights with a "down-to-earth, livable vibe". Xu Yaqi, Vice Dean of HXIT’s School of Civil Engineering, emphasized that the collaboration embodies the HXIT’s "application-oriented" talent cultivation philosophy and its commitment to supporting local development, helping students build professional skills and a sense of social responsibility.