Civic groups protest pedestrian overpass demolition
The issue of whether or not to demolish the pedestrian overpass at the Heping-Xinsheng intersection in Taipei has sparked a heated debate. The city government has temporarily suspended its demolition plan amid calls for its preservation. However, Mayor Chiang Wan-an pointed out the overpass is barely used by anyone and has urged officials to move forward with the plan, provided there is adequate communication. On Wednesday, the organizer of the "Save the Heping-Xinsheng Overpass" campaign spoke out, asking the mayor to fulfill his promise of continuing dialogue.
Colorful prints and graffiti fill the Heping-Xinsheng bridge. The pedestrian overpass was scheduled to be demolished on Monday, but the plan was suspended amid a sense of reluctance and nostalgia. For many, this overpass is more than just a pedestrian bridge. It’s a symbol of memories.
Local resident
If you’re feeling down at night, and it’s too late to go somewhere else, this area is very bright and safe, so people often come to this overpass. Some just sit here and space out, while others, like dog walkers, also find this bridge useful.
Local resident
The Civil Engineers Association has already come to inspect the house, take photos, and assess how the situation will be once the overpass is demolished. They’re checking if the walls might crack or if any other issues could arise, in case the ground might sink.
Standing for 42 years, the Heping-Xinsheng overpass has become a local landmark. On it, there are now wedding photos taken there years ago, as well as colorful sticky notes with heartfelt messages expressing the desire to preserve the bridge. A “Save the Bridge” campaign was launched in response to the city government’s decision to move forward with demolition. Opponents of the demolition claim that although the mayor had promised continued communication, they have yet to see any genuine effort or sincerity in fulfilling that commitment.
Lin Wen-chun
Campaign organizer
Large-scale events are held at Da’an Forest Park, which is a designated disaster prevention park. Having an additional overpass could provide more options for evacuation, allowing people to move more quickly in case of an emergency. If a disaster or urgent situation were to occur and an evacuation is needed, having an extra route would definitely help with crowd dispersal and ensure a smoother evacuation process.
Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
The Heping-Xinsheng overpass sometimes has an actual usage rate of less than 10%. If former Mayor Huang Ta-chou had not demolished the Chunghwa Market back then, there wouldn’t be today’s Zhonghua Road, nor the bustling Ximen District. When it comes to the right thing, we’ll stick to it, speak boldly, and act decisively.
The Transportation Department pointed out that the four supporting pillars of the overpass at its intersections are like “large A-pillars for vehicles,” creating visual blind spots when turning. It’s a tough chasm between collective memory and safety concerns.
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2024-11-06
