Straits Times 16 Dec 07;
THE Eastern Coastal Park Connector looks seamless on the map, but, on the ground, it is a different story.
LifeStyle journalist Sandra Leong, 26, and Viki Ho, 32, who owns bicycle shop Cycle Craft in East Coast Road, ended up carrying their transport at some spots along the route.
DISMOUNT 1
At the end of the Bedok Park Connector heading to East Coast Park, the underpass behind Bedok Camp has no ramp down. Cyclists have to carry their bikes down a staircase.
Ho says: 'This is difficult for cyclists with heavy bikes. The steps look slippery after rain so people wearing cycling shoes (which have studded surfaces) may fall.'
Leong says: 'Not only is there no ramp, the steps are also steep and narrow.'
NParks says: 'The existing underpass was constructed by the Land Transport Authority many years ago. We are working with the LTA to see if it can provide a proper ramp. We need to ask for additional land as well as additional funding. We hope to do something within the next two years.'
DISMOUNT 2
Along Bedok North Road on the Siglap Park Connector, there's no proper ramp on an overhead bridge that cyclists use to link up with Bedok Town Park. Bikes have to be pushed along a narrow, cement groove that runs beside the staircase steps.
Ho says: 'I wouldn't roll my bike down this way because it's not safe. Just like the underpass, most people will carry their bikes. Those with heavy bikes may find this inconvenient.'
Leong says: 'As there are two flights of steps on either side, this is no easy feat, especially for older cyclists.'
NParks says: 'This overhead bridge was built by the LTA and the land adjacent to it is HDB land. We are working with HDB and LTA to come up with a cost-effective design and technical solution to incorporate the ramp into the existing structure. Again, we hope to do this within the next two years.'
MISLEADING SIGN
At the end of Pasir Ris Town Park, a sign mistakenly directs cyclists to turn around if they want to head to Changi Beach Park. It should, in fact, be pointing right. NParks says a screw on the sign had come loose, causing it to swing in the wrong direction. The problem was rectified on Thursday.
Cycle Craft is at 282 East Coast Road
