Singapore’s Urban Commute Revolution: First Phase of Bishan-to-City Link Opens Amidst Expansive Cycling Path Initiatives

As Singapore continues to advocate for green, sustainable transport, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) are paving the way, quite literally, for a bike-friendly nation.

 

The PIE Marvel: Bridging Gaps and Reducing Commute Times

In an ambitious move to transform urban commute, the URA recently announced the construction of Singapore’s longest elevated cycling bridge by 2027. 

Spanning a colossal 682 metres across a 14-lane stretch of the Pan-Island Expressway (PIE) near St Andrew’s Junior School, the bridge promises seamless connectivity.

Once completed, cyclists and pedestrians can effortlessly travel between St Andrew’s Junior College and Jalan Taman, thanks to a 1.2km link.

The piecemeal work along the Kallang Park Connector, when amalgamated, stands to significantly slash commuting times.

A journey of cycling from Bishan to the Central Business District will see a reduction from a laborious 1-1.5 hours to a breezy 30-45 minutes.

 As National Development Minister Desmond Lee pointed out at the launch of the master plan 2025 public engagement and opening of the Bishan-to-City Links on October 5, the entire Bishan-to-city project underscores Singapore’s commitment to sustainable commutes.

Screengrab from URA Website

A Tapestry of Communal Spaces and Art

Beyond mere connectivity, URA has made concerted efforts to meld functionality with aesthetics and community involvement. 

The Central Expressway underpass, which previously lay dimly lit, now stands bright with increased headroom and added lighting. 

This revamp extends to artistic installations, with a mural showcasing the Kallang River’s rich history. 

Intricate designs like wavy patterns simulate river scenes, while copper inlays depict native fauna – a testament to Singapore’s vibrant biodiversity. 

Straits Times Photo / Kevin Lim 

Phase 2 and Beyond: Expanding the Bishan-to-City Links Project

As per reports by Channel NewsAsia, the first phase has already seen impressive advancements.

This includes enhancements and additions to underpasses, street-level crossings, and decorative murals that tie in the theme of the Kallang River.

The next phase promises even more breakthroughs with the construction of the PIE cycling bridge, proving that Singapore’s vision for sustainable commuting is anything but pie in the sky.

A tender to build the 682m-long cycling bridge was also announced by the URA yesterday.  

The Bishan-to-City Link bridge during opening day / Straits Times Photo, Gin Tay 

LTA’s Islandwide Endeavour of 1,300km by 2030

Meanwhile, the Land Transport Authority is not lagging behind in its ambitious goal of having a cycling path network that spans a whopping 1,300km by 2030.

Targeting key amenities and inter-town connectivity, LTA aims to build cycling paths in Geylang, Hougang, Kaki Bukit, Marine Parade, Potong Pasir, Sengkang, and Serangoon, progressively completing them by 2024.

The LTA’s Islandwide Cycling Network programme hopes to ensure that eight out of ten HDB residents are mere minutes away from a cycling path network. 

Besides paths, amenities such as bicycle crossings, wheeling ramps, map boards, and additional parking spaces for bicycles at MRT stations are in the pipeline.

Screengrab of how the PIE bridge will look like / URA

Working Towards a Green Future

The unprecedented improvements to Singapore’s cycling infrastructure, with multiple projects unfolding in tandem, are not just a statement but a commitment. 

With this, the nation not only moves towards a sustainable future but also creates urban spaces that resonate with community, culture, and care for the environment.

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Featured Images from Straits Times 








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