Poti's New Horizon: A Master Plan by City Studio 9
City Studio 9 is finalizing a 15-year master plan for Poti, transforming it into a modern, multifunctional hub with international urban expertise, economic diversification, and world-class coastal infrastructure.
Poti's New Horizon: A Master Plan by City Studio 9
The partnership City Studio 9 is currently finalizing the General Plan for Poti, a comprehensive strategic roadmap designed to redefine the city's spatial layout and development priorities for the next 15 years. The project integrates urban planning and transport analysis with deep economic research and an assessment of social needs, aiming to transition Poti into a modern, multifunctional hub.
To ensure world-class standards, the team is collaborating with international experts: the Ukrainian firm 'ProMobility,' led by Professor Dmitry Bespalov, is spearheading the transport analysis, while the Polish company 'A2P2,' headed by Monika Arczyńska, provides strategic support for the urban planning components.
Economic Diversification as a Pillar of Resilience
Historically, Poti's economic pulse has been inextricably linked to its port. However, research conducted during the planning phase revealed that such singular dependence leaves the city's welfare and employment rates vulnerable to global shifts. To mitigate these risks, the development plan emphasizes a shift toward a more diverse economic landscape.
As Project Coordinator and Urban Planner Andro Kortua explains, a city of Poti's scale must become multifunctional to remain resilient. While the port and logistics will maintain their dominant roles, the plan introduces parallel growth in tourism, sports, and coastal infrastructure to ensure long-term stability.
Redefining the Urban Fabric and Coastal Identity
A cornerstone of this transformation is the revitalization of the currently underutilized coastline. The project envisions a complete overhaul of the shoreline, featuring a new boulevard, a modern fishing port, a maritime station, and the creation of a lush subtropical park. Mamuka Chkhaidze, Creative Director of Studio 9, identifies the upcoming coastal reconstruction as a primary catalyst that will drive the city's overall growth.
This urban intervention extends into the heart of the city through several key developments:
Island District: A new tourist 'Piazza' is planned to enhance public spaces.
- Historical Core: The area along Aghmashenebeli Street will be significantly strengthened.
- Sports Infrastructure: Development of a 20,000-capacity stadium alongside an international-standard hippodrome, training bases, and specialized water-sports facilities.
- City Gateways: Exploring potential sea-based arrivals to enhance Poti's regional connectivity.
A Citizen-Centric Approach to Development
Modernizing the urban experience for residents is a top priority, with a significant shift toward pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. In a move to correct past neglect of non-motorized mobility, the plan places the interests of pedestrians at the forefront of the city's new zoning.
This structural clarity has already spurred a surge in local construction activity. To manage this momentum, Andro Kortua highlights the necessity of close coordination with municipal authorities, ensuring that every new development aligns with the General Plan's core concept rather than contributing to chaotic urban sprawl.
Public Engagement and the Road Ahead
The success of the Poti General Plan relies heavily on its collaborative nature. Through public hearings and thematic workshops, the team has ensured that the local population remains an active participant in the process. According to the planning group, public interest has been exceptionally high, with citizens engaging directly with the technical documentation.
Following the conceptual reviews held in January 2026, the working group is now moving toward finalization this spring. While the full implementation of these systemic changes will span a decade or more, Poti now possesses a long-term roadmap that moves beyond sporadic interventions and toward a unified, strategic evolution.
This project is commissioned by the Poti City Hall.