TD commences studies on walkability and assessment mechanism to take forward "Walk in HK" initiative

     The Transport Department today (December 15) commenced the 30-month Consultancy Study on Enhancing Walkability in Hong Kong and the Review of Assessment Mechanism for Hillside Escalator Links and Elevator Systems and Preliminary Feasibility Studies, with a view to supporting the Government's "Walk in HK" initiative and creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment in Hong Kong.

      The Consultancy Study on Enhancing Walkability in Hong Kong aims to formulate planning and design standards based on pedestrian-first principles for developing Hong Kong into a more walkable city. The scope of the study includes exploring ways to enhance overall walkability in Hong Kong and pedestrian wayfinding system, as well as selecting two pilot areas to showcase innovative measures devised by the study to create a comfortable walking environment. 

      The Review of Assessment Mechanism for Hillside Escalator Links and Elevator Systems and Preliminary Feasibility Studies aims to review and improve the assessment mechanism established by the Government in 2009, and on this basis to carry out initial screening and assessments for the new proposals received in past years to select the most feasible and justified proposals, so as to draw up a timetable for implementing these proposals in future. 

     The Transport Department will continue in its endeavour to promote "Walk in HK" and encourage people to "walk more, ride less", thus reducing the use of mechanised transport for short-distance commuting with a view to alleviating traffic congestion, improving air quality and making walking an integral part of life in Hong Kong as a sustainable city, thereby developing Hong Kong into a more walkable city.