Neigou Creek Ecological Trail Introduction
Neigou Stream is a tributary of the Keelung River, with a total length of approximately 5.5 kilometers and a drainage area of about 7 square kilometers. To the west of Neigou Stream is Taipei City, while to the east is New Taipei City. It serves as a great place for residents in the Donghu area to walk, relax, and socialize, and it is also the best location for getting close to nature in the Donghu region. Since 2013, a comprehensive landscape renovation has been carried out along the swimming section of Neigou Stream in Donghu, extending nearly 1 kilometer of waterfront walking path from upstream. The installation of landscape bridges and waterfront paths connects the previously separated wandering routes of Taipei and New Taipei cities along both banks of Neigou Stream. While removing silt, the project aims to restore the aquatic environment of Wufenbi, creating ecological habitats with varying depths. It offers an ecological education space that can be enjoyed day and night, fostering community engagement and appreciation for nature. This space also aims to revive the beautiful memories of the elderly residents. The project focuses on four key aspects: 1. Unique creativity and restoring the past natural and cultural living environment. The overall engineering structure and design aim for a lightweight approach, incorporating local expectations of Jiangnan garden-style landscapes, with color schemes that respect and blend into the natural environment of Neigou Stream while considering water conservancy and drainage. 2. Preserving the gradually established waterfront green corridor and increasing opportunities for greening at the top of the embankment. With flood prevention functions in mind, green spaces will be created where there is sufficient space on the embankment, enriching waterfront ecology and promoting lush green growth. 3. Preserving and improving aquatic habitats. While prioritizing embankment safety, the project still values the natural ecological aspects by following existing embankment slopes and topography. Aside from dredging, it avoids excessive excavation and disruption to the ecosystem. 4. Energy saving, carbon reduction, and sustainable development. To meet energy-saving and carbon-reduction requirements, low-intensity lighting will be used along the waterfront while ensuring safe lighting for nighttime walkers. The prominent landscape bridges connecting the two cities will be planned with light designs that evoke the imagery of stars dotting the waterfront. (Some material sources: Department of Water Resources, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government)
