Once the works for Bencoolen MRT station in the Downtown Line 3 project is done, a revamped Bencoolen Street will hold much less vehicular traffic, and a lot more trees and benches as well as foot and cycling paths.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) wants a ‘car-lite makeover’ for Bencoolen Street, meaning all vehicles (other than public buses) are restricted along Bencoolen Street. Harsh! But it’s all part of LTA’s efforts to “create a more conducive and pleasant environment for people to walk, cycle, and ride public transport in Singapore.”
Other enhancements include dedicated cycling paths and 125 bicycle parking lots installed at various locations along the street, including the upcoming Bencoolen MRT station, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Bayfront Hotel and more. It’ll be a faster and smoother bus journey for commuters as well with a dedicated bus lane along the stretch of Bencoolen Street between Middle Road and Bras Basah Road that’ll launch on Dec 11.
As for motorists, they won’t be able to turn left onto Bras Basah Road from Bencoolen Street at all — but Waterloo Street will convert to a two-way street to allow vehicles to pass through the area. The traffic direction for the stretch of Queen Street between Bras Basah Road to Stamford Road will also be reverted towards Bras Basah Road. And it’ll be implemented on Nov 13 too, which means you’ve got two days left to enjoy the current traffic arrangements.
