The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore has announced the commencement of the first of five Friendly Streets pilot locations in Bukit Batok West.

In the last six months, the LTA has collaborated with local advisers, representatives of relevant government agencies, town councils, and grassroots leaders for the layout and other details of the Friendly Streets programme.

The work to build Friendly Streets in the five pilot towns is being undertaken in stages, with features to be deployed under the project to be tailored to the individual needs of each town.

The scheme aims to make walking, cycling, and major town amenities safer, more convenient, and comfortable.

In a survey, nine out of ten residents believed that the features under the Friendly Streets concept would boost safety and provide better accessibility in their communities. 

Friendly Streets would provide more barrier-free pedestrian crossings; increased Green Man activations with more time for pedestrians to cross the road; and more traffic-calming measures such as road humps.

By 2030, the LTA plans to extend the Friendly Streets project to all towns in Singapore.

The LTA will use these pilot areas to gather insights to spread the concept to more towns.

Friendly Streets will have a unique appearance and feel, which will be supported by new signages and a logo to provide a welcoming atmosphere.

Its design is intended to raise public awareness of pedestrian-friendly zones that are prioritised for community usage.

Last month, the LTA completed Phase One of the Singapore Rail Test Centre, which is said to be South-East Asia’s first train testing centre.