More towns to have cycling paths in next few years - 26Oct2013

Описание: SINGAPORE: More towns have been identified for cycling paths.

Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim said this at an event to mark the completion of the Sembawang Cycling Path network and the ground breaking of the Yishun Cycling Path Network on Saturday.

Dr Faishal said that after Sembawang, the government will next complete 2.5 kilometres of cycling paths in Marina Bay by the end of this year.

The government also expects to complete cycling path networks in Pasir Ris, Taman Jurong and Changi-Simei by 2015.

Ang Mo Kio, Choa Chu Kang and Toa Payoh have also been identified as towns where cycling path networks will be implemented.

The Land Transport Master Plan 2013 has plans to build a cycling path network of about 190 kilometres in HDB towns by 2020.

"I also mentioned previously that we plan to improve cycling connectivity between park connectors and nearby MRT stations. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has identified three such MRT stations - Bishan, Buangkok and Yew Tee. These short links will be built by early next year," said Dr Faishal.

He added that it had also come to the attention of the authorities that cyclists have difficulty carrying their bicycles up and down the stairs at overhead bridges.

To help cyclists do so, the Ministry of Transport will develop design guidelines to build bicycle wheeling ramps, which will look like a groove along the side of such stairs.

It will be tried out at an overhead bridge across Aljunied Road next year.

Dr Faishal explained: "While we are working hard to develop and enhance our cycling infrastructure, it will take some time for all the projects to be completed. As pointed out by many observers, infrastructure is only part of the solution.

"Given that Singapore is land constrained, it will not be possible for us to build dedicated cycling paths to cater to all routes. Hence, there will be occasional situations where pedestrians and cyclists have to share space. It is therefore just as important that motorists, cyclists and pedestrians look out for not only our own safety, but also that of other road users.

"We should adopt a more gracious attitude towards other commuters. I hope that over time, we will engender a culture that allows for mutual understanding and basic courtesy between cyclists, motorists and pedestrians."

Dr Faishal also launched the logo iCYCLE for the National Cycling Plan on Saturday.

He said "iCYCLE" is derived from the word "bicycle", and is a visual play on the words "I" and "cycle".

It signifies the role of the individual in choosing cycling as a convenient mode of transport, and that a pleasant and safe cycling experience begins with the individual.

www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/more-towns-to-have/862326.html