Fukuoka City is poised for a record budget of over ¥1.1128 trillion, marking the fifth consecutive year its budget has exceeded ¥1 trillion. The plan, approved by the Fukuoka City Council, prioritizes support for child-rearing households and infrastructure improvements, signaling a commitment to long-term urban development and quality of life enhancements.
Free School Lunches and Expanded Child Support
A cornerstone of the new budget is the allocation of ¥4.08 billion to provide free school lunches at public elementary and junior high schools starting in the second term. This initiative directly addresses the financial burden on families, with current monthly lunch costs standing at ¥4,200 for elementary students and ¥5,000 for junior high students. The move aligns with a broader trend of municipalities seeking to alleviate household expenses amid rising living costs.
Beyond free lunches, the budget expands child support programs to include health checkups for one-month-old and five-year-old children, building upon existing infant health services. This proactive approach to preventative care underscores the city’s focus on early childhood development and well-being.
Infrastructure Investments and Urban Redevelopment
The budget also earmarks significant funds for infrastructure projects designed to improve public safety and enhance the urban environment. ¥45 million will be dedicated to installing air conditioning in all municipal school gymnasiums used as evacuation centers, with completion targeted for . This investment addresses a critical need for resilient infrastructure capable of providing safe and comfortable shelter during emergencies.
Fukuoka City is also investing in aesthetic improvements and transportation infrastructure. ¥290 million is allocated for greening underground spaces at Tenjin, Hakata, and Fukuoka Airport subway stations, aiming to create more welcoming and visually appealing public spaces. ¥210 million is earmarked for planning a new exhibition space for the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum at the former Kego Park underground parking site, bolstering the city’s cultural offerings.
Addressing transportation concerns, the budget includes approximately ¥30 billion to mitigate congestion on the Fukuoka City Subway’s Nanakuma Line. This investment will focus on expanding ticket gates at Tojinmachi Station, a key access point for events at the PayPay Dome. The expansion is intended to streamline passenger flow and improve the overall commuting experience.
Financial Health and Revenue Growth
The record budget is underpinned by robust financial performance, with city tax revenue expected to exceed ¥370 billion for the first time. This growth is attributed to rising land prices driven by population increases and ongoing redevelopment projects. The city’s debt per capita has also decreased to less than half of its peak in , demonstrating improved fiscal health and responsible debt management.
The city plans to leverage increased tax revenue to fund key initiatives while simultaneously reducing its debt burden. A pilot project for the national government’s proposed “Universal Childcare Access Program” will also be implemented, showcasing Fukuoka City’s commitment to innovative social programs.
Strategic Redevelopment Projects
The budget supports several strategic redevelopment projects, including the redevelopment of the former Kyushu University Hakozaki Campus in Higashi Ward. These projects are expected to stimulate economic activity and contribute to the city’s long-term growth. An archaeological survey, costing ¥48 million, will investigate whether Fukuoka Castle ever had a tenshukaku (main keep), adding a historical dimension to the city’s urban planning efforts.
Finally, the city will explore redevelopment plans for Hakata Port’s central pier following the withdrawal of the Queen Beetle ferry service, seeking to repurpose the space and maximize its economic potential. This demonstrates a proactive approach to adapting to changing circumstances and optimizing land use.
Fukuoka City’s budget reflects a strategic blend of social support, infrastructure investment, and fiscal responsibility. The emphasis on child-rearing, coupled with investments in public amenities and transportation, positions Fukuoka as a city focused on sustainable growth and an enhanced quality of life for its residents.
