Orsk to Spend 64 Million Rubles on Central Park Phase Two

In Orsk, the large-scale reconstruction of the Central Park of Culture and Leisure named after Polyanichko will continue in 2026. It has been one of the favorite recreational spots for residents since the late 1950s. We explain what is planned for this year and why the park bears this name.

According to the local administration, the park will feature a modern playground. An amphitheater will be installed at the entrance on the left side, where holidays and concerts will be held. Old lighting will be replaced with modern fixtures. Asphalt will be replaced with paving slabs. The project also includes two wells and an irrigation water supply.

— During the two stages of improvement, we will renovate a quarter of the entire park area. This is a significant step towards creating a modern, comfortable, and safe space for all city residents. We expect that after the reconstruction, our Central Park will remain a favorite place for family recreation, sports, and walks, — said the head of Orsk, Artyom Vorobyov.

All work planned for the second phase of reconstruction will cost 63,772,000 rubles (approximately $708,600 at current rates). The corresponding lot has been published on the public procurement website, and applications for the competition are accepted until February 6 inclusive.

As for the first phase, it took place in 2025. At that time, cobblestones and new lights appeared at the entrance and on the central alleys, and a safe surface was laid on the playground. Trees and flower beds were also preserved.

The foundation of Orsk«s Central Park was laid in 1958. The project envisioned that the area would occupy about 12 hectares and be divided into two zones — an active zone and a quiet recreation zone. Work continued until 1964, and the first trees and shrubs were planted not only by Orsk residents but also by guests from Cuba: the birches, maples, and poplars they planted were called »friendship trees«.

The then first secretary of the Orsk city committee of the All-Union Leninist Young Communist League (VLKSM, Komsomol), Viktor Petrovich Polyanichko, took an active part in the improvement of the area. In 1972, he became secretary of the Orenburg Party Committee, and in 1978 he began working as an instructor in the propaganda department of the Central Committee of the party. Later, Viktor Petrovich was elected a people«s deputy of the USSR, and from 1985 he worked in Afghanistan and other hot spots, where he negotiated ceasefires. He died on August 1, 1993, while on duty.

In 1964, the park acquired its first attractions. Folk festivities were held there, such as farewell to Russian winter (Maslenitsa), Victory Day, concerts, and Sunday readings. Four years later, the park was named «Central Park of Culture and Leisure named after the 50th Anniversary of the VLKSM», and in the early 1990s it became a venue for rallies. In 1997, by decision of the City Council, the area was renamed «Central Park of Culture and Leisure named after Viktor Petrovich Polyanichko».