Construction of PCN Shared Path along Boon Lay Way
17 November 2021
NParks, LTA
To improve cycling connectivity, NParks, in consultation with LTA, designed and constructed a boardwalk and concrete shared path. This was in addition to the footpath along Boon Lay Way, in response to feedback from users.
The total distance of the new boardwalk and concrete path is 700m and has an adequate path width of over two metres. Connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists has since been enhanced between Chinese Garden and Lakeside MRT stations. It has also added to the mileage of Park Connector Network in the Taman Jurong and Jurong Lake areas.
Congestion and safety concerns have been alleviated, improving path user experience. The path has been built below the MRT viaduct. Agencies worked closely to ensure that technical and safety requirements under the Railway Protection and Safety Zone Regulations were met, given the proximity of the path to the LTA Railway Protection Zone.
The development posed multiple challenges in terms of engineering complexity, site constraints and environmental impact. For instance, the construction of the boardwalk had to be next to a steep slope. Geotechnical conditions of the site were carefully evaluated, and the proposed construction methodology had to ensure integrity of the slope. Effective erosion control measures were also used. Furthermore, the work had to be done within a narrow work site, between the steep slope and a PUB roadside drain. The space constraints added on to the complexity of the case.
Due to the proximity of the path construction site to the residential estate across Boon Lay Way, environmental management and protection measures had to be adopted to minimise pollution. The path was also next to a roadside concrete drain, so agencies had to ensure civil works did not damage the drain walls. Agencies also bridged the gaps by making sure NParks’ Park Connector Network along Boon Lay Way and LTA’s Cycling Path Network along Yuan Ching Road were connected seamlessly to ensure a better experience.
Given the complexities and challenges, joint consultations were made to resolve technical issues (for example, consultations with PUB to discuss drainage issues, and with LTA regarding the clearance to carry out restricted activities at the railway).
The team has since observed that more people have been using the new boardwalk compared to the roadside footpath. NParks has also received positive feedback verbally and on social media.

The new boardwalk being constructed.

The completed boardwalk provides a seamless walking and cycling connection between Chinese Garden and Lakeside MRT stations

The new boardwalk has a larger width than the existing footpath along Boon Lay Way, providing a safer and improved user experience for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Installation of signage to promote safe path usage.
