Dandong invested 1.27 billion yuan ($201.3 million) in social services, accounting for 79 percent of all the government spending from January to November in 2011. The money benefited the locals' livelihoods through catering, clothing, accommodation and transportation.

The Dandong Municipal Bureau of Finance raised 100 million yuan for the renovation of trunk roads, streets and bridges. Another 240 million yuan was given for road expansion projects and the construction of two new subway lines this year.

Nearly 7 million yuan was provided in subsidy to public transport, enabling students and senior citizens over 70 years age to enjoy discount tickets. The government also bought 100 liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled low carbon emission buses.

In addition, footpaths for exercising were built along the Yalu River and in Jinjiang Mountain. These included pavilions, fitness equipment and other facilities, promoting both scenic sightseeing and fitness tourism in the city.

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Rakhee