Is Singapore aiming for a car-lite future? | With Paul Barter (PART 2)

Summary

Singapore has long restricted car ownership to maintain exclusivity, but since 2014, it has embraced a 'car-lite' approach to enhance livability. While cars remain visible, the government is focusing on improving walkability, cycling infrastructure, and public transport, making it easier to live comfortably without a car. Efforts include expanding bicycle lanes, improving bus services, and implementing car-free zones. Additionally, initiatives like Silver Zones aim to slow traffic for safety. Despite ongoing car use, Singapore is steadily progressing toward a future with better alternatives to car ownership, aiming for a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 Singapore is known for its car ownership restrictions and high costs for using cars, but despite these limitations, traffic and parking remain common in the city.
• 😀 Since 2014, the Singapore government has pushed for a 'car-lite' strategy, aiming to make the city more livable by reducing car dependence.
• 😀 The concept of a 'car-lite' city involves improving alternatives to driving, such as better public transport, walking, cycling, and car-sharing options.
• 😀 Cars are treated as a luxury in Singapore, with the wealthy paying high taxes to own them, which has been a long-standing policy.
• 😀 The government is focusing on enhancing public transport services, including expanding the MRT network and improving bus services.
• 😀 There has been significant investment in making Singapore more pedestrian-friendly, with improvements in parks and walking paths along rivers and drains.
• 😀 Bicycle infrastructure has also improved significantly, with new red-painted bike lanes and more bike-sharing programs.
• 😀 The government is experimenting with car-free events, such as Sunday mornings in the city center, which have been successful and popular.
• 😀 Traffic calming measures, like 'Silver Zones,' are being implemented to slow down traffic in neighborhoods with high elderly populations.
• 😀 Despite these efforts, Singapore still faces a challenge of traffic congestion, with more roads still being built and some major road projects, like the North South Corridor, continuing to expand car infrastructure.
• 😀 The future of Singapore's 'car-lite' vision will depend on how well alternative transport options can replace cars and whether the public accepts the idea of living without a personal car.

Q & A

What is Singapore's approach to car ownership and usage?

Singapore has adopted a restrictive approach to car ownership and use, treating cars as a luxury. The goal is to limit the number of cars on the roads, aiming for a more car-lite environment, where alternatives to car usage like public transport, cycling, and walking are prioritized.

How does Singapore maintain a visible presence of cars despite restricting ownership?

Even though Singapore limits car ownership, there are still visible cars on the roads because the city remains compact, and traffic is present. There are also plenty of parking spaces available, making cars prominent in the landscape, though the number of cars is relatively controlled.

What is meant by the term 'car-lite' in the context of Singapore?

'Car-lite' refers to the government's effort to reduce reliance on cars and make alternative transport methods, like walking, cycling, and public transport, more convenient and accessible. The aim is to improve the overall livability of the city while maintaining essential road infrastructure.

How has the government's focus on bicycles changed in recent years?

Singapore’s government initially overlooked bicycles but has since made significant strides to improve cycling infrastructure. Bicycle paths are now much more extensive and are designed in a 'Dutch-style', and there is a growing effort to enhance the quality of these facilities.

What improvements have been made to Singapore's public transport system?

There has been a large investment in Singapore's public transport, with expanded MRT networks and improved bus services. The government has also focused on making public transport more efficient, reducing waiting times for buses and enhancing the overall comfort and accessibility of services.

What are 'Silver Zones' and why are they important?

Silver Zones are areas where traffic speeds are reduced to 40 km/h to make streets safer, particularly for the elderly. These zones are designed with features that make crossing streets easier and more pleasant, contributing to the overall safety and wellbeing of local residents.

How has pedestrian infrastructure been improved in Singapore?

Pedestrian infrastructure in Singapore has been significantly enhanced, with improved pathways for walking, jogging, and cycling along rivers and parks. The government has focused on making urban areas more walkable and accessible, especially in areas with high foot traffic.

What are the 'Car-free Sunday' events in Singapore?

The 'Car-free Sunday' events are initiatives where specific parts of the city center are closed off to traffic on Sunday mornings. These events, aimed at promoting a more pedestrian-friendly environment, have been successful and popular among locals and visitors alike.

How is Singapore balancing the need for roads with its 'car-lite' goals?

While Singapore continues to expand major roads, like the North South Expressway, the government has reimagined such projects to prioritize bus lanes and bicycle facilities as part of the 'car-lite' initiative. These roads are being designed to support both car traffic and alternative transport options.

What might Singapore look like in 2040 regarding car usage?

In 2040, Singapore may still have some level of traffic, but the government hopes to have significantly reduced car dependency. The balance between traffic and alternative transport systems will depend on whether the public fully embraces these alternatives and recognizes their value in enhancing the city's liveability.