1. From 18 August 2008, signs to warn motorists of the
presence of cyclists can be spotted along roads such as Upper Thomson Road,
Mandai Road, West Coast Road and Tuas Road (please refer to Annex
A).
2. These roads in the central and western parts of Singapore
are popular with cycling enthusiasts and frequently used for their training
sessions.
3. The expansion of these signs to the central and western
routes is an initiative undertaken by LTA after consultation with the Safe
Cyclists Task Force (SCTF). In October 2007, a pilot was conducted in the
Eastern Zone near the Changi area, where such signs were first installed.
4. The popular cycling routes in the central area comprise Neo
Tiew Road, Kranji Way, Kranji Road, Lim Chu Kang Road, Old Choa Chu Kang Road,
Woodlands Road, Mandai Road, Mandai Avenue, Upper Thomson Road and Old Upper
Thomson Road (please refer to Annex
B).
5. The routes in the western area include Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim,
Jurong Pier Road, Jalan Buroh and West Coast Highway (please refer to Annex
C).
6. Facilitating cycling is in line with the Land Transport
Master Plan. LTA Chief Executive, Mr Yam Ah Mee, elaborated "We must ensure
the safety of cyclists on the roads and the installation of these safety signs
along these stretches of roads will help to alert motorists of the presence of
cyclists and make it safer for those who cycle on the roads."
8. LTA's move is supported by avid cyclist and SCTF member, Mr
Leo Tan. He said "We understand that making the roads safe for cycling is a
challenging task as the needs of various stakeholders have to be carefully
balanced. Thus, the extension of the signs to these other routes is certainly a
step in the right direction. Apart from alerting motorists to take extra care on
roads commonly used by cyclists, it also stands as a symbolic recognition by the
State that motorists must share the roads with cyclists. Such support from
authorities like the LTA bodes well for our efforts to promote safety and to
achieve harmonious co-existence between cyclists and other road users."
9. Another SCTF member, Mr Nik Ho, added "As cyclists, we
welcome the expansion of these signs as it enhances our safety on the road. The
SCTF will continue to work closely with the relevant authorities in the
implementation of such measures."
10. LTA highlighted that while these signs are meant to raise
awareness of cyclists' presence at frequent training routes, less skilful
cyclists should exercise judgment when determining if these routes are suitable
for them. All cyclists are advised to adopt safe cycling behaviour whether they
travel along these routes or elsewhere.
11. With the expansion of these signs to the central and
western areas, a total of 119 signs have been installed.
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