A PROJECT to install private toilets in a century-old neighborhood is nearing completion as part of a campaign to solve some 100 difficulties for citizens as part of celebrations for the centennial of the Communist Party of China.

Private toilets or renovated shared bathrooms have been completed for 86 percent of the nearly 500 households in theQishanVillage community inChangningDistrict. The characteristic Shanghai lane houses built in the 1920s have been refurbished and restored.

Designers have divided part of the public space or encouraged some residents to spare an indoor corner for the installation of the toilets, saidZhuWeihong, Party secretary of the neighborhood community on the historicYuyuanRoad. “The most challenging task is expected to be completed soon to largely improve the living condition of the community,”Zhusaid.

The neighborhood has been home to many notable citizens. Missile and space scientistQianXuesen(1911-2009) lived there after his return from the United States in 1955. His house is now a memorial to his legacy. Among other former residents were writer, translator and scholar Shi Zhecun (1905-2003), translatorFuLei (1908-1966) and pianistGu Shengying (1937-1967).

The case was promoted during an event to share the 100 social governance practices inChangning.

In another model practice,GeMingming, a retired Shanghai Radio Station editor, launched a storytelling saloon in theHongqiaocommunity in 2013. Over 100 sessions have been held among local residents, mainly retirees.