The abandoned Hellenikon airport in Athens might be getting a second chance at life—as a megacomplex. After closing 15 years ago when a more modern airport was built for the 2004 Olympics , Hellenikon’s structures have fallen into disrepair. Several plans to reinvent the property have failed to materialize, but the current proposal by Greek firm Lamda Development Group has gained traction. Lamda seeks to create a 494-acre metropolitan park—which would be the largest in Greece—as well as retail attractions, hotels, residences, a kilometer-long public beach, sports facilities, schools, and research centers. With an investment of $7.8 billion, the project is estimated to create approximately 70,000 jobs and contribute more than 2 percent to Greece’s GDP. Visit thehellinikonom for more information.

The waterfront property could be transformed into a massive public park, including a beach.