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Mayor Stresses Safety of Renewed Xinsheng Overpass

During the city administration meeting on October 13, Mayor Hau Lung-bin received a comprehensive report on the Xinsheng Overpass from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Public Works Department (PWB).
The mayor remarked that the city government anticipated busy traffic on October 12 – the first working day following the reopening of the overpass. He noted that the renovation strengthens the structural integrity of the overpass, making driving on the overpass much safer.
When asked if the cost of the project is too expensive, Hau pointed out that the money spent on the renovation project is significantly less than what it would take to build a new overpass. Therefore, the decision to renovate the bridge instead of constructing a new one is in line with the city’s interest and suggestions by experts. As for questions about exposed beams at sections of the bridge, the mayor explained that the city will work on improving the appearance of the bridge during the next phase of the project.
The city government announced the reopening of the overpass after ensuring that the structure is safe and secure for all users. The decision helps to relieve the pressure on city traffic between Dazhi, Neihu, and Shilin. The completion date for the entire renovation project is slated for next year.
DOT Commissioner Luo Shiaw-shyan reported that following the reopening of the Xinsheng Overpass on October 10, the traffic volume of the overpass saw a significant increase on the first working day. According to the Traffic Engineering Office, rush hour traffic on the overpass took place between 7 AM and 9 AM with southbound traffic at 2,093 PCU (passenger car unit) and northbound traffic at 2,983 PCU.
PWD Commissioner Chen Jin-yuan pointed out that the cost of the overpass renovation and reinforcement is approximately NT$1.18 billion. This is considerably less expensive than building a brand-new overpass, which would have cost the city NT$5 billion.