Fukuoka Mayor Soichiro Takashima said 2026 would be a pivotal year for the Tenjin Big Bang redevelopment while declining to say whether he will seek a fifth term. Speaking at his first regular press conference of the year on Jan. 7, Takashima said the city is approaching a milestone in the “first half” of the Tenjin Big Bang initiative, which began in 2015 and has reshaped central Tenjin. He noted that some projects have faced delays, while major developments have continued. He also pointed to progress under the Hakata Connected initiative, including the planned opening this summer of the Nishinippon City Bank building. With less than a year left in his fourth term, Takashima said he would focus on fulfilling his current role and consider future plans at an appropriate time. Source: Fukuoka city channel
Photo: Fukuoka city channel
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