Pasir Ris gets complete network of cycling paths

Pasir Ris now has a system of cycling paths spanning the town, making it easier for residents to ride from their homes to places in the estate.

It is the third Housing Board town - after Tampines and Sembawang - to get a complete network of cycling paths.

The new network spans 13.3km and goes past various primary and secondary schools, shopping malls and Pasir Ris MRT station.

It stretches from Pasir Ris Drive 12 in the west to Loyang Avenue in the east, and is part of the Land Transport Authority's plans to build a system of cycling paths within every HDB town by 2030.

The completed network was officially launched by Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean yesterday morning.

Also present were Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim and Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC MP Zainal Sapari.

Mr Teo, who is also an MP for Pasir-Ris Punggol GRC, said the new cycling paths make commuting safer for both cyclists and pedestrians, as each now has a dedicated lane on the pavement.

He added that the Transport Ministry is drawing up clear road rules for cyclists, such as how fast they should go and what they should do when riding across junctions.

In the absence of such rules, however, he urged drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to follow two guidelines "based on common sense and common courtesy".

"First, the less vulnerable should look out for and give way to the more vulnerable," he said.

"Second, those who are more vulnerable should be aware of their own vulnerability... and conduct themselves safely at all times."

Mr Daniel Woo, who lives in the area, said he uses the cycling paths fortnightly to get to places like Changi and East Coast Park.

"It's easier to cycle now because the lanes are broader," he said.

"Cyclists use one side, and pedestrians use the other side."

linettel@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on Feb 16, 2015.
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