GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s streetscapes, especially around the heritage area of George Town, will be transformed into pedestrian-friendly public spaces in phases, says state executive councillor Chow Kon Yeow.
The state local government, flood mitigation and traffic management committee chairman said this was to enable the public to use these spaces, whether for cycling, walking or just taking a rest.
“This is part of the transformation planned for Penang so that all these places are accessible to all,” he told reporters after inspecting the China Street Ghaut Streetscape upgrading work.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Yew Tung Seang, who was also present during the visit, said the project covers three phases and costs RM3 million.
The council is funding RM2.4 million, with the rest of the cost funded by Think City, a special project vehicle established by Khazanah Nasional Berhad to transform George Town into a culturally vibrant and sustainable city.
The first phase of the project commenced last December and is expected to take three to four months to complete.
It involves the upgrading of the pedestrian walkway along Wisma Yeap Chor Ee and Wisma Kastam by improving accessibility, drainage and greenery.
The second phase comprises the upgrading of walkways along Disted College and George Town Chambers. The work will commence in late March and is expected to take three months to complete.
The final phase will involve the upgrading of the drainage outfall at Weld Quay, which is expected to alleviate flood issues in this area.
MBPP, together with George Town Conservation and Development Corporation Sdn Bhd, are currently upgrading the streetscape of China Street Ghaut.
China Street Ghaut was identified as a main pedestrian spine under George Town’s special area plan.
The project was aimed at upgrading the infrastructure, enhancing the streetscape, reducing traffic speed, promoting walking and cycling, and improving connectivity and activity in the east seafront of the precinct.
This work is expected to be fully completed by July this year.
http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2015/09/05/vehicles-beat-pedestrians-in-penang-shopping-street/