Singapore to Develop 10 More 'Friendly Streets' by 2026

Key Takeaways

10 streets will be upgraded by 2026.
Focus on improving accessibility for seniors and children.
Construction starts in early 2025.
Features include barrier-free crossings and traffic calming.
Community input shaped the project.

Singapore, Jan 15 (NationPress) Singapore has unveiled an initiative to enhance 10 streets throughout the island by 2026 to improve walking and cycling conditions, especially for elderly individuals and young children.

Work on these 'Friendly Streets' is set to begin progressively in the first half of 2025, with a completion target of 2026, as stated by Senior Minister of State for Transport Amy Khor during an event launch in Holland Village, which is one of the areas included in the initiative.

By 2030, every town in Singapore will have at least one 'Friendly Street', she remarked.

These streets are situated in residential neighborhoods with high foot traffic and proximity to vital amenities such as markets, hawker centres, community clubs, schools, and MRT stations. These locations often have a higher density of elderly residents or young families, according to a statement from the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

Proposed enhancements for pedestrian-friendliness include reduced speed limits, barrier-free pedestrian crossings prioritizing walkers, traffic-calming road markings, and broader, more accessible sidewalks whenever possible.

The particular sites and features of these streets were identified in collaboration with local communities following consultations with stakeholders and residents, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

"Construction is set to begin in the first half of 2025 and be completed in 2026. Where feasible, construction will coincide with other local projects to minimize inconvenience to residents. Upon completion, residents can expect enhanced barrier-free crossings, traffic-calming installations like road humps, green markings to encourage drivers to slow down, and pedestrian-friendly zones identified by the distinctive Friendly Streets icon," stated the LTA.

Initially launched as a pilot in 2023, the 'Friendly Streets' program began with five streets. Four have already been completed, with another expected to finish by March this year. The LTA has reported favorable feedback from residents, with nine out of ten respondents indicating an improvement in their walking and cycling experiences.