- LTA launches Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme to improve public transport.
- Up to S$900 million investment planned over 8 years for Singapore bus service upgrades.
- New express and feeder bus services to be introduced in various areas.
Singapore’s Land Transport Authority is set to enhance bus services, complementing MRT expansions to meet growing commuter needs.
Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme Unveiled
In a press release by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced a new plan to improve Singapore bus services.
The Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme (BCEP) aims to make bus travel better for people in Singapore.
This programme is part of a bigger plan to improve public transport, including new MRT lines and stations.
The LTA will work with grassroots advisers to make sure the changes meet residents’ needs.
Here are some key highlights to note:
- Three new Circle Line MRT stations will open in 2026.
- The Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line will start running from 2027 and 2030 respectively.
- New bus services will be added to match changing travel patterns.
New Singapore Bus Services and Improvements
According to the LTA, “We will step up improvements to bus services, such as by adding more trips, adjusting routes or introducing new services.”
A new Singapore bus service will run from Toa Payoh East to Caldecott MRT station by the end of 2024.
Punggol will get a new City Direct Service (CDS) from around October 2024 to help during busy times.
Yishun East will have a new bus service by the end of September 2024.
Take a look at this quick table for a clear overview:
Area | New Service | Start Date |
---|---|---|
Toa Payoh East | Bus to Caldecott MRT | End of 2024 |
Punggol | City Direct Service | Around October 2024 |
Yishun East | New bus service | End of September 2024 |
Tampines North | Express feeder service | December 2024 |
Express Feeder Services
The LTA stated, “These services will take more direct routes with fewer intermediate stops, reducing residents’ travel time.”
A new express feeder bus service will start in Tampines North in December 2024.
These new bus services will have fewer stops to make trips faster for people.
The aim is to cut travel time between major transport hubs.
Investment and Future Plans
The LTA will spend up to S$900 million over the next eight years on these improvements.
This money will be used to buy new buses and improve bus-related infrastructure.
Part of this cost will be recovered through fares paid by commuters.
The LTA will keep checking how many people use the buses and make changes as needed.
These changes are meant to help with the increase in bus use due to new housing areas and more people.
Benefits for Commuters
The BCEP aims to make it easier for people to use public transport.
More people might start using buses along with the MRT.
Express services could help reduce crowds on MRT lines during busy times.
New town areas will get bus services faster than before.
The LTA’s Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme shows a strong commitment to improving public transport in Singapore, with a focus on meeting changing travel needs across the island.