First cycling bridge in Jurong West opens; residents can walk or cycle across PIE
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SINGAPORE - The first cycling bridge in Jurong West, which can accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, was officially opened on Feb 15.
The new 110m-long and 8m-wide overhead bridge is a stone’s throw from Block 864A Jurong West Street 81 and straddles the PIE, providing residents with a means to cross the expressway.
It will benefit 63,000 Jurong West residents by giving them easier access to the Jurong Innovation District, Nanyang Technological University, and the future MRT station at CleanTech Park.
The district is Singapore’s first mixed-use district for advanced manufacturing, where companies can tap sensors, robotics and other technological solutions to improve their business.
The bridge was officially opened by Minister for National Development Desmond Lee, who is also a West Coast GRC MP, his fellow MP Ang Wei Neng, and JTC Corporation chief executive Tan Boon Khai.
“We have worked closely with JTC over the years, and we are delighted that the widest overhead bridge in Jurong West is now pedestrian-, cyclist- and pet-friendly, complete with a lift. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating a more connected and vibrant community,” said Mr Ang.
There is also an ongoing collaboration with the Land Transport Authority to build dedicated cycling paths around Nanyang, the ward within the group representation constituency that Mr Ang represents.
The new bridge has dedicated walking and cycling paths, and links up with the Round Island Route park connector.
JTC’s Mr Tan said that the bridge provides a link to the Jurong Innovation District, and will bring employment opportunities closer to residential areas in Jurong West.
“(The bridge) will also encourage more walking and cycling, aligning with our vision for a car-lite Jurong Innovation District.
“Together with the upcoming Sky Corridor and future MRT station at CleanTech Park, the bridge will revolutionise mobility and improve connectivity, linking residents to job opportunities, nature and ecosystems in the district,” said Mr Tan.
The Sky Corridor is an elevated pathway within the Jurong Innovation District
Over 1,000 residents living in the vicinity walked or cycled across the bridge to mark its opening. The celebration ended with a carnival at the end of the walk at JTC’s CleanTech Three with activities such as a treasure hunt, longkang fishing, pottery ornament painting and a pet bazaar.
Naval engineer officer Patrick Ong, 49, who just picked up cycling, said that the new bridge will cut the travel time from his home in Jurong West Street 81 to amenities at the CleanTech Park from 20 minutes to 10 minutes.
“I looked at the map and the park here looks very nice. I also heard there are some F&B outlets here. It’s quite difficult to come by last time, and now I’m keen to explore the area.”
