Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Tunç Soyer inspected the works in the Botanical EXPO area, which will be hosted by Izmir in 2026. Stating that they have come a long way in the project, Mayor Soyer said, "We are bringing one of the most beautiful recreation areas of our city to Yeşildere. After the demolitions, the manufacturing phase will begin. A project that Izmiris will remember with blessings will be realized in this way."

Preparations are underway in Yeşildere Valley for the International Horticulture EXPO (Botanical EXPO 2026), which the city was awarded the right to host in 2026 thanks to the efforts of Izmir Metropolitan Mayor Tunç Soyer. Demolition of the expropriated buildings continues in the project area, which will give the area between the IZBAN line, Meles Creek and Yeşildere Street a completely different look, starting from under the Atatürk Mask. Mayor Tunç Soyer went to Yeşildere and made inspections.

“Expropriation 54 percent complete, demolitions underway”
Stating that the project, which is in harmony with nature and will contribute to urban aesthetics, will regulate the unplanned settlement and increase the amount of green space, Mayor Soyer said, "We are in Yeşildere, one of the most critical points of Izmir, at the connection point between the airport and the port. This is one of the most embarrassing points of Izmir in terms of old building stock. The building stock has turned into a complete slum... And it is a route that every citizen who comes to Izmir passes by. We want to turn it into a green area. At the same time, we are trying to design this green area to host a big EXPO. With the project we have prepared, Izmir has won the right to host a large international plant EXPO in 2026. We are at 54 percent of the expropriation process, we plan to complete the expropriation by the end of the year. After an international organization, Izmir will gain a green area about twice the size of Kültürpark. This will become one of the most beautiful recreation areas of the city. Meles Stream will turn into a living river. We are on the verge of a project that will make a great contribution to the city in many ways. We have come a long way so far, especially in the expropriation process. Demolitions continue. After this, the manufacturing phase will begin. Thus, a project that Izmir residents will remember with good will be realized."  

One of the most critical points of the city
The EXPO area covers the borders of Yenidoğan, Küçükada, Yeşildere, İmariye, Vezirağa, 19 Mayıs, Lale, Çaldıran, Hürriyet and 2nd Kadriye neighborhoods in Konak and Buca. The area also includes the Martyrs' Grove and Kadifekale area. Yeşildere Street, which connects to the north and south, passes through the area. The area is also accessible by metro and buses from Kemer Transfer Station and Basmane Train Station. It takes 20 minutes to reach the EXPO area from Adnan Menderes Airport.  

Izmir will gain a city park
Approximately 5 million people are expected to visit the International Horticulture EXPO, which will be held between May 1 and October 31, 2026 with the main theme of "Living in Harmony". EXPO 2026, which will open the door to international trade for all producers in the sector from seeds to trees, will also increase Izmir's recognition in the world. The fairground to be built in Yeşildere will be an important attraction center where thematic exhibitions, world gardens, art, culture, food and other events will be held. While the area will host its guests with gardens and events during the 6-month EXPO period, it will be brought to Izmir as a living city park afterwards.