Taiping Guangxinglong Bridge Introduction
The Guangxinglong Bridge in Taichung's Taiping District, near the 921 Earthquake Memorial Park, spans the Toubian Creek and connects Taiping Road with the first section of Xinglong Road. Built in 1983, the bridge has seen over 30 years of service and has endured the devastation of the 921 earthquake and multiple storms. The aging structure has been classified as a dangerous bridge, with parts of the deck showing wear, concrete spalling, and signs of corrosion on the piers. Its seismic resistance is inadequate, and the narrow 7.5-meter width of the bridge creates hazardous situations for vehicles, often resulting in traffic accidents. After the merger of Taichung County and City, reconstruction began in 2013 to create a new and magnificent Guangxinglong Bridge, measuring 232 meters in length and 20 meters in width, expanding the deck to a two-way four-lane road. In line with urban planning, the roads leading to both ends of the bridge have been widened and straightened by over 200 meters, significantly improving transportation for local residents and addressing issues such as obstructive trees, sharp turns, and steep slopes. The bridge's design is inspired by the form of a bat, symbolizing the blessing of prosperity in Taiping, hoping that travelers who pass through this area will have a smooth and safe journey home. The Guangxinglong Bridge features LED landscape lights on its cables, showcasing a variety of colors including blue, green, purple, and yellow. Additionally, pedestrian and bicycle paths have been added on both sides of the bridge, integrating with the recreational areas along the Toubian Creek, allowing the public to easily bike while enjoying the scenic urban riverside views. As night falls, the Guangxinglong Bridge dazzles with its brilliant lighting, making it a stunning new landmark in Taiping District, Taichung, and a perfect leisure spot for nearby residents to stroll and relax.
