New Taipei MRT Boosts Urban Growth: Tucheng-Shulin Line Plans

New Taipei City Spearheads Transit-Oriented Development with TWD4.5 Billion MRT Investment

New Taipei City is significantly advancing its metro-centric urban development strategy with a substantial investment in two integrated transit-oriented projects along the Tucheng–Shulin MRT Line. This initiative, announced at a signing ceremony held at the Hilton Taipei Sinban Hotel, involves the development of residential towers and integrated station access points at LG16 Station exits A and B. The project, signed today by the New Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems (DRTS) Commissioner Li Cheng-An and Sinyi Development Chairman Chou Chun-Chi, represents a TWD4.5 billion (approx. USD 140 million) investment. The expected completion date is set for 2032. This news article will detail the specifics of the LG16 Station projects, examine the DRTS’ broader transit-oriented development strategy, and explore the benefits of this integrated approach to urban planning.

A Vision of Integrated Urban Development

The signing of the contracts with Sinyi Development marks a pivotal step in New Taipei City’s commitment to modernising public transport and fostering local development. The development at LG16 Station, encompassing exits A and B, exemplifies this commitment. The projects will feature two 27-storey residential towers built above and around the integrated station access points. Each tower will offer significant floor space—approximately 22,800 and 27,500 square metres respectively, for a combined total of around 50,300 square metres. These residential buildings, designed to accommodate roughly 1,400 residents, are designed to meet stringent green building standards, achieving Gold-Level Smart Building certification, promoting sustainability and enhancing the living experience for residents.

Design and Cultural Integration

New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-Yi highlighted the projects’ significance, stating that the LG16 Station developments are two of the three sites where the investment process has been completed. The architectural design incorporates cultural heritage, using historic irrigation maps of Shulin as inspiration for the flowing patterns across the building façades. This creative incorporation of the locality’s heritage underscores the DRTS’s dedication to creating developments that contribute to both functionality and aesthetics.

Innovative Development Model: Integrated Construction

A notable aspect of this project is the integrated approach to construction, where Sinyi Development will simultaneously build the station exits alongside the residential towers. This approach allows landowners, who have provided land for the station entrances free of charge, to receive the benefits of their investment returns sooner. The station access points, which will together span approximately 3,550 square metres, will house all the required metro facilities: ticketing halls, retail spaces, restrooms, accessible lifts, escalators, plant rooms, staff areas, and storage spaces. The DRTS is also employing an integrated development strategy for the Tucheng–Shulin Line, wherein property developments occur concurrently with the construction of MRT infrastructure, a departure from the traditional approach. This strategy accelerates the realization of benefits for stakeholders, including early returns on investment for landowners and the provision of integrated services for the local populace.

Tucheng–Shulin Line: A Model for Future Transit Expansion

The Tucheng–Shulin Line project, as outlined by Commissioner Li Cheng-An, comprises nine planned MRT developments with a combined investment estimated at approximately TWD38.2 billion (approx. USD 1.18 billion). With three projects having already secured investors and several others currently open for tender, the DRTS is on track to deliver a comprehensive transit system with improved urban living standards. The remaining three sites are undergoing urban planning adjustments, highlighting a flexible and adaptive development approach. Commissioner Li’s observations about the shift from traditional project sequencing emphasize the proactive planning approach that prioritizes integrated infrastructure and urban planning strategies. This ensures a seamless transition between the MRT line’s launch and the associated development projects.

Conclusion

The LG16 Station developments represent a significant advancement in New Taipei City’s transit-oriented urban development strategy. By integrating residential towers, station infrastructure, and cultural heritage, the city is creating modern, sustainable, and livable communities. The integrated approach, which combines exit construction and property development, accelerates benefits for stakeholders while also offering improved services to residents. This strategy not only promises to reshape the urban landscape but also lays the groundwork for further investment and growth within the region’s transit systems. The focus on green building standards and smart technology suggests an emphasis on sustainability that reflects a shift towards environmental responsibility in transit infrastructure. The success of the Tucheng–Shulin Line development will be a model for similar projects in the future. Overall, the initiatives taken by the DRTS are paving the way for improved quality of life, well-connected communities, and an overall transformation of New Taipei City’s urban landscape.

Company Summary

Sinyi Development Co., Ltd. is a well-established real estate developer with a strong presence in Taiwan. While the company’s primary focus is on residential and commercial property development, it often integrates infrastructure projects into its portfolio. Sinyi Development’s involvement in the LG16 Station project aligns with its broader commitment to creating sustainable and technologically advanced urban spaces that support improved quality of life. They provide the essential expertise in project management, design, and construction required to deliver large-scale, complex developments like the integrated projects associated with the Tucheng-Shulin Line. The expertise of this and similar companies is central to advancing metro development projects within New Taipei City.