We agree with Mr Wong on the importance of expanding the cycling network to facilitate the take-up of active mobility (Lianhe Zaobao, 25 November 2021).
We have completed nearly 500km of cycling paths, and will continue to ramp up the construction of cycling paths island wide. We are working towards having around 1,300km of cycling paths by 2030. By then, 8 in 10 HDB residents would be within minutes away from a cycling path. Cyclists will be able to cycle conveniently from their homes to nearby amenities and transport nodes. Cycling from town to town will also made more seamless.
To support cycling commutes, supporting infrastructure such as bicycle parking facilities at destinations and transport nodes will also be provided. For new HDB towns such as Tengah and Bidadari, cycling paths have already been incorporated into their design. At the same time, in line with our Walk Cycle Ride (WCR) vision, we are repurposing suitable road space for cycling paths. For example, we have converted stretches of roads into cycling paths in Ang Mo Kio and Bukit Panjang.
As Mr Wong pointed out, even as we expand the cycling path network, there will be instances where cyclists and pedestrians will need to share the same path in land scarce Singapore. Thus, besides infrastructure, it is equally important that we educate on our active mobility rules, as we enforce against the errant minority. For example, since 2018, we have rolled out a safe riding programme to educate users on safe riding practices, proper use of Active Mobility infrastructure and the rules and code of conduct.
Cyclists should keep to the speed limit of the paths and all path users are encouraged to keep to the left and be aware of their surroundings. We will continue to reiterate these practices in collaboration with our stakeholders and as part of our ongoing public education. Our enforcement teams complement our educational efforts by regularly engaging active mobility users on the ground.
Ultimately, safety is a collective responsibility and we hope everyone can play their part to help realise our vision of a safe and gracious active mobility culture in Singapore.
Chan Boon Fui
Group Director, Active Mobility Group
Land Transport Authority
