Taiping Guangxinglong Bridge Introduction
The Guangxinglong Bridge in Taiping District, Taichung, near the 921 Earthquake Memorial Park, spans the Tou-Bian-Keng Creek, connecting Tai-Ping Road and Xinglong Road Section 1. Built in 1983, the bridge has now been serving for over 30 years. It has endured the devastation of the 921 earthquake and multiple wind storms. The aging bridge has been classified as a dangerous bridge, with some sections of the deck showing deterioration and peeling concrete, while the piers exhibit signs of rust. Its seismic resistance is inadequate, and the narrow roadway, which is only 7.5 meters wide, often leads to dangerous situations where vehicles need to vie for space, resulting in frequent traffic accidents in this area. After the merger of Taichung County and City, reconstruction began in 2013 to create a brand new and magnificent Guangxinglong Bridge, which measures 232 meters in length and 20 meters in width, expanding the deck to become a two-way four-lane road. In conjunction with urban planning, the roads at both ends of the bridge have also been widened and straightened by over 200 meters, significantly improving local residents' traffic conditions and resolving issues such as obstructed views from roadside trees, sharp curves, and steep grades along the original route. The bridge's design, inspired by the shape of a bat, symbolizes the arrival of blessings (福) to Taiping, hoping that travelers passing through this section can enjoy a smooth journey and return home safely. The Guangxinglong Bridge features LED landscape lights on its steel cables, showcasing various colors such as blue, green, purple, and yellow, creating dynamic light effects. Pedestrian and bicycle paths have been added to both sides of the bridge, integrating with the recreational spaces along the banks of the Tou-Bian-Keng Creek, allowing the public to easily ride bicycles and admire the beautiful riverside cityscape. As night falls, the Guangxinglong Bridge, illuminated by dazzling lights, exudes a captivating charm, becoming a vibrant new landmark in Taiping District, Taichung, and a great place for local residents to enjoy leisurely walks.
