Party-mass service centers turn into 'living rooms for all'

In 2021, the Party-mass service center at Xuhui riverside, a popular destination for weekend getaways in Shanghai, opened with a modest sign on the side placed to avoid deterring non-Party members.

Today, however, the sign is prominently displayed at the top of the two-story building, with the letters over 1-meter high.

The change to the display is indicative of the public's growing recognition and acceptance of the center. To date, it has received 2.6 million visits, with over 1 million visits recorded last year alone, averaging more than 2,700 per day. The steadily increasing number demonstrates the public's fondness for this public space.

"Aside from sleeping, I can fulfill nearly all my needs here. I come almost every day to practice calligraphy, join singing groups and perform sword dances. I love participating in the activities here," said Xu Xinmin, a 69-year-old resident and a veteran Party member.

"Seeing such spaces open to all residents is wonderful. They serve as a bridge between the Party and the public," he added.

Over the past two years, Shanghai residents have noticed an increase in Party-mass service facilities along city streets. They often offer community canteens, libraries, study spaces and services tailored to locals' needs, such as health services, senior care and playrooms for toddlers.

Initially used exclusively for Communist Party of China activities, these facilities have been transformed into "living rooms for all", with some even opening their doors all year round and providing around-the-clock services. Experts said that such a shift embodies the principle of "people's cities should be built by the people and for the people" proposed by President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

"From day one of designing this facility on the riverside, which is now a 2,000-square-meter center, we kept the concept of 'people-centered'in mind. Therefore, we set operating hours from 7 am to 9 pm, open year-round, with some facilities like restrooms available around the clock. Shower facilities for riverside joggers are open from 6 am to midnight," said Xia Rui, head of Party-mass service facilities in Shanghai's Xuhui district.

Shanghai now boasts over 10,000 Party-mass service facilities of various sizes. Strategically located within 15-minute living circles, these facilities are part of a comprehensive service system, ensuring residents easy access to essential nearby services.