North South Corridor and North South Expressway, Singapore
Imagine zipping through lush green landscapes, cutting your travel time by up to 30%, and reaching your destination with unprecedented ease. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? But for residents and road users in Singapore, this dream is about to become a reality! Say hello to two of the city’s most ambitious infrastructure projects: the North South Corridor (NSC) and the North South Expressway (NSE).
With their seamless integration and state-of-the-art technology, these mega road networks aim to redefine commuting and connectivity while altering Singapore’s urban landscape for the better. In this post, we’ll explore the innovative features, latest updates, and far-reaching impact of the NSC and NSE on Singapore’s bustling populace. So, buckle up and get ready for a journey into the future of transportation.
1. NSC to be Singapore’s longest Transit Priority Corridor
The North-South Corridor (NSC) in Singapore is an ambitious infrastructure project that promises to revolutionize the way people travel within the city-state. As the longest Transit Priority Corridor, the NSC measures an impressive 21 kilometers in length and is expected to cost a colossal S$7–8 billion to fully complete by 2027. Primarily designed to alleviate traffic congestion along the busy north-south axis, its strategic integration with existing expressways such as the Seletar Expressway (SLE), Pan Island Expressway (PIE), and East Coast Parkway (ECP) is expected to greatly enhance connectivity for both private and public transport users.
One of the key aspects of the NSC project is its dedication to providing express routes for buses, which is expected to significantly reduce travel times for passengers. According to Singapore’s Land Transport Authority, these dedicated bus lanes will potentially cut commuting durations from northern areas like Woodlands, Sembawang, Yishun, and Ang Mo Kio to the city center by up to 30 minutes. Furthermore, the seamless integration of intra-town bus services with dedicated ramps and bus lanes along the NSC is expected to further improve connectivity between residential areas and the city center.
In line with Singapore’s emphasis on promoting a car-lite and eco-friendly urban environment, the NSC project incorporates a continuous cycling path along the entire stretch of the highway. This dedicated path will link up the Park Connector Networks and cycling routes within the Housing Development Board (HDB) towns, providing cyclists with a safe and efficient way to travel between their homes and the city center. The inclusion of this cycling infrastructure is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to encouraging active and green modes of transportation.
The successful completion of the North-South Corridor is expected to substantially improve connectivity and reduce travel times for residents in Singapore. Being the first integrated transport corridor of its kind, this innovative project is poised to become a blueprint for future infrastructure developments in the city-state and beyond. [1][2]
2. Dedicated bus lanes and cycling trunk routes for commuters
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The North-South Corridor (NSC) in Singapore is a revolutionary transport infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity for commuters in the northern and north-eastern regions. Designed as Singapore’s first integrated transport corridor, the NSC will feature dedicated bus lanes and cycling trunk routes that will provide faster and more efficient travel for public transport users and active mobility enthusiasts. With the completion of the 21.5 km long NSC, commuters will benefit from smoother and faster journeys, directly connecting the northern region to the city centre.
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One of the key highlights of the NSC is its focus on improving the experience of bus commuters. The dedicated and continuous bus lanes, combined with bus priority signals, will help reduce travel time for bus users by an average of 10 to 15 minutes. This improvement to public transportation not only promotes sustainable mobility solutions but also alleviates traffic congestion on major arterial roads such as Thomson Road, Marymount Road, and the Central Expressway (CTE).
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In addition to benefits for bus commuters, the North-South Corridor will also cater to active mobility users, making it easier and safer for cyclists to travel between the northern region and the city centre. The cycling trunk routes will provide well-connected paths for cyclists, linking up with the Park Connector Network and local cycling paths within HDB towns along the corridor. Pedestrians will also enjoy wide and shaded walking paths along the corridor, enhancing the overall connectivity and accessibility for all users. This integrated approach to transport infrastructure demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to promoting a greener, car-lite city. [3][4]
3. Alleviation of traffic on CTE and major arterial roads
The North-South Corridor (NSC) in Singapore is a major infrastructure development aimed at alleviating traffic congestion on the Central Expressway (CTE) and other major arterial roads, such as Thomson and Marymount. Set to be the city-state’s longest transit priority corridor, the NSC will directly connect the Northern region to the city center and is slated for completion by 2027. The ongoing construction work on the NSC holds the potential to transform Singapore’s public transit system for the better by offering smoother, faster journeys for commuters.
One of the key features of the North-South Corridor is its dedicated bus lanes and bus priority signals, which will improve traffic flow and result in significant time savings for bus commuters. By providing continuous bus lanes along the 21.5-kilometer corridor, the NSC is expected to shorten travel times by an average of 10 to 15 minutes. This development will greatly enhance the overall public transit experience for Singaporeans, especially those living in the northern region of the country.
In addition to easing traffic congestion, the North-South Corridor will also benefit active mobility users and pedestrians through cycling trunk routes and pedestrian paths. These will connect with the existing Park Connector Network and local cycling paths within HDB towns, offering improved connectivity for people using various modes of transportation.
Upon its completion, the North-South Corridor is poised to not only alleviate traffic on the CTE and major arterial roads but also transform the way people commute within Singapore. By catering to various modes of transportation, the NSC will contribute to a more efficient and sustainable urban environment in the city-state. [5][6]
4. Bus commuters expected to save 10 to 15 minutes of travel time
The North-South Corridor (NSC) is an upcoming infrastructure project in Singapore that aims to significantly improve the commuting experience for the public. Spanning 21.5 km, this transit priority corridor will provide a direct connection between the Northern region and the city center. With the completion of the NSC, bus commuters can expect to save an average of 10 to 15 minutes of travel time.
As the country’s longest Transit Priority Corridor, the NSC will feature dedicated bus lanes, cycling trunk routes and pedestrian paths. These enhancements will ensure smoother and faster journeys for all users. Additionally, the corridor is designed to alleviate traffic congestion on the existing Central Expressway (CTE) and major arterial roads, such as Thomson Road and Marymount Road.
To further benefit bus commuters, the NSC incorporates continuous bus lanes and bus priority signals along its entire length. By enabling buses to bypass traffic congestion, the transit priority corridor ensures that commuters can reach their destinations more quickly. This time-saving feature is expected to be particularly valuable during peak travel periods, when bus journey times can be significantly reduced.
Active mobility users and pedestrians will also find the NSC advantageous, as its cycling trunk routes and pedestrian paths provide enhanced connectivity. These pathways will link with the existing Park Connector Network and local cycling paths within HDB towns along the entire corridor. As a result, the NSC will help to create a more inclusive and environmentally friendly transportation network for all Singaporeans.
In conclusion, the North-South Corridor holds great promise for improving the daily commute in Singapore. As the project continues to progress, bus commuters, active mobility users, and pedestrians can all look forward to reaping the benefits of shorter travel times and enhanced connectivity. [7][8]
5. Active mobility users and pedestrians to benefit from cycling and pedestrian paths
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority is taking a significant step towards promoting active mobility and enhancing the commuting experience for its citizens with the development of the North-South Corridor (NSC). This integrated transport corridor, spanning over 21.5 kilometers, aims to connect the northern regions to the city through a comprehensive network of dedicated cycling trunk routes, bus lanes, and pedestrian paths. Slated for completion in 2027, the NSC is set to become Singapore’s longest Transit Priority Corridor and serve as an essential connectivity route for public commuters, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
The NSC is designed not only to alleviate traffic congestion on the Central Expressway and other major arterial roads but also to provide a convenient and eco-friendly alternative mode of transportation for the population. When fully operational, the dedicated bus lanes and cycling routes will offer seamless connectivity between the northern regions and the city-center, resulting in more efficient and quicker journeys for commuters.
Moreover, the inclusion of cycling trunk routes and pedestrian paths in the NSC project will significantly improve connectivity and encourage a healthier lifestyle among the city’s residents. These routes and paths will link with the Park Connector Network and local cycling paths within housing development board (HDB) towns along the entire corridor, promoting a more widespread adoption of active mobility options, such as cycling and walking.
In conclusion, the development of the North-South Corridor in Singapore presents a commendable initiative towards integrating various modes of transportation, thereby fostering an inclusive and sustainable urban landscape. The project offers immense benefits for active mobility users and pedestrians by providing safe and accessible infrastructure that caters to their needs while also promoting an environmentally-friendly commuting culture for the city’s population. [9][10]
6. Reconfiguration of junctions for construction of NSC tunnels
The construction of the North-South Corridor (NSC) in Singapore has prompted several changes to the existing road infrastructure to accommodate the upcoming transit priority corridor. One notable alteration is the reconfiguration of the junction at Thomson Road with Newton Road and Moulmein Road. This adjustment, which commenced on 18 October 2020, is essential to facilitate the construction of the NSC tunnels lying directly underneath this critical intersection.
Motorists and commuters utilizing this stretch should be aware of the new traffic arrangements and make necessary adjustments to their routes if needed. Clear signages and advisories were put in place to guide road users through this reconfiguration, minimizing any potential confusion and ensuring a smooth transition during the construction phase.
The reconfiguration of this junction demonstrates the commitment of the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in ensuring that this vital project progresses efficiently. Upon completion in 2027, the 21.5 km North-South Corridor will provide faster, smoother journeys for commuters, connecting the city center with Singapore’s northern region while alleviating traffic on the Central Expressway (CTE) and major arterial roads such as Thomson Road and Marymount Road.
The NSC will not only benefit public bus commuters, who will enjoy an average travel time savings of 10 to 15 minutes, but also active mobility users and pedestrians. This is made possible through dedicated cycling trunk routes and pedestrian paths that will link the corridor with the Park Connector Network and local cycling paths within HDB towns along its entire stretch. This visionary project showcases Singapore’s commitment to enhancing connectivity for its residents, promoting a sustainable and integrated transport network. [11][12]
7. NSC to cost S$7-8 billion and have 16 entrances and 17 exits
The North-South Corridor (NSC) is a significant infrastructural project in Singapore, with an estimated cost of S$7 billion to S$8 billion. The project, which entails redeveloping the current North-South Expressway and constructing a new highway, aims to facilitate the seamless connectivity of the island’s transportation network. This ambitious plan will primarily benefit motorists and commuters by offering a more efficient and convenient mobility experience.
One of the critical components of the NSC project is the construction of 16 entrances and 17 exits along its entire stretch. These strategically placed ingress and egress points have been designed to ensure smooth traffic flow and provide direct access to various destinations across Singapore. The intention is to minimize the need for motorists to use arterial or local roads, thereby reducing traffic congestion and ensuring a more pleasant motoring experience.
Additionally, the NSC is designed to be an eco-friendly alternative to the existing Central Expressway (CTE) by incorporating dedicated and continuous bus lanes, as well as pedestrian and cycling paths. This multi-purpose approach will give commuters various travel options that are not only timely but also sustainable in the long run.
In conclusion, the extensive investment in the North-South Corridor project underscores the Singapore government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s transportation infrastructure. By providing a comprehensive and efficient connectivity solution, the NSC is poised to have a transformative impact on the way Singaporeans travel. Furthermore, the incorporation of sustainable features like bicycle lanes and bus lanes emphasizes the importance of promoting environmental stewardship in large-scale infrastructural developments.
8. Continuous bus lanes to reduce bus travelling times by up to 30 minutes
The North-South Corridor (NSC) is an ambitious infrastructure project in Singapore, designed to significantly improve transportation efficiency and connectivity in the region. One of the key aspects of the NSC is its continuous bus lanes, which are expected to drastically reduce bus travelling times for commuters. These dedicated lanes, combined with bus priority signals, aim to save up to 30 minutes of travel time for bus users during peak hours.
Such strategic planning caters to the increasing traffic along the north-south corridor and reduces the pressure on the existing Central Expressway (CTE). The NSC also prioritizes seamless and expedient bus connections between residential towns and the city center. Intra-town buses can leverage the ramps and bus lanes on the surface, further enhancing their travel efficiency.
The integration of these continuous bus lanes is not only beneficial to public bus commuters but also promotes the use of eco-friendly modes of transportation. It supports Singapore’s broader commitment to sustainable urban development, as well as alleviating traffic congestion on major arterial roads such as Thomson and Marymount Road.
Furthermore, the NSC introduces dedicated cycling and pedestrian paths along the expressway. These paths are designed to link up with the Park Connector Networks and cycling routes within HDB towns, fostering a well-integrated transport network for active mobility users.
In conclusion, the continuous bus lanes along the North-South Corridor highlight Singapore’s pursuit of sustainable and efficient urban transportation solutions. When completed in 2027, commuters can enjoy expedited and hassle-free connections between residential towns and the city center, ultimately fostering a more accessible and greener urban environment in Singapore. [15][16]
9. Completion pushed back to 2027 due to construction delays
The North-South Corridor (NSC), a highly anticipated expressway project in Singapore, was initially targeted for completion by 2023. However, due to significant construction delays, the deadline has been extended to 2027. This 21-kilometer expressway is estimated to cost around S$7–8 billion upon completion and will connect the East Coast Parkway (ECP) with the northern parts of Singapore.
The project was first announced as the North-South Expressway in January 2008 by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). In January 2011, the government provided approval to proceed with the construction of the expressway between Admiralty Road West and Toa Payoh Rise. In November 2011, LTA unveiled the full alignment of the North-South Corridor, with land acquisition undertaken in advance to provide sufficient time for owners to relocate.
The NSC was integrated into a transport corridor in 2016, with land clearance conducted in preparation for construction works to commence in 2018. Construction eventually started in 2018, with the project now reported to be around 50% complete in terms of foundational work for road tunnels. The ongoing construction is expected to be completed by 2027, following a one-year delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Upon completion, the North-South Corridor will provide numerous benefits to commuters, including reduced travel times for both private vehicles and buses, as well as improved connections between residential towns and the city center. Additionally, the expressway will feature a cycling path that stretches along the entire corridor, linking park connector networks and dedicated cycling paths within HDB towns to the city center. [17][18]
10. North South Expressway announced in 2008 as part of major review of Singapore’s transport network.
The North-South Expressway (NSE) was first announced in 2008 as a significant addition to Singapore’s transport network. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) revealed this ambitious project to help address the increasing traffic along the north-south corridor. With an estimated cost of S$7-8 billion, the project is designed to improve connectivity between the northern parts of Singapore and the city center, alleviating congestion on the Central Expressway (CTE).
Upon completion in 2027, the 21-kilometer long expressway, now known as the North-South Corridor (NSC), will provide a total of 16 entrances and 17 exits, connecting key towns along the north-south corridor including Woodlands, Sembawang, Yishun, and Ang Mo Kio. Furthermore, the NSC will create connections to existing expressways such as the Seletar Expressway (SLE), Pan Island Expressway (PIE), and East Coast Parkway (ECP).
One noteworthy feature of the NSC is the continuous bus lanes aimed at reducing bus travel time by up to 30 minutes during morning and evening peak hours. This will not only expedite travel for those living in the residential towns along the corridor but also improve intra-town bus connections.
In addition to supporting public transport, the NSC also incorporates cycling and pedestrian paths spanning the entire length of the highway. These paths connect with Park Connector Networks and dedicated cycling paths in the nearby HDB towns, further promoting sustainable and active mobility options for Singaporeans.
Initially planned for completion in 2023, the North-South Corridor faced considerable delays, pushing its expected completion date to 2027. Despite these setbacks, the ongoing construction of tunnels and viaducts signifies progress in realizing the vision of a more integrated and efficient transport corridor for Singapore’s growing population. [19][20]
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