Cyclists will soon be able to traverse Taiwan on an interconnected series of bike paths under a national network project approved Nov. 19 by the Council for Economic Planning and Development.
Work on the NT$1.2 billion (US$41.38 million) plan, which is set to begin next year, will see an additional 470 kilometers added to the country’s existing routes by 2016. The priority is on connecting existing paths and enhancing network satisfaction levels.
“The project is part of the ROC government’s drive to create a greener Taiwan and friendlier environment for cyclists,” a CEPD official said. “It will also help spur the local bicycle and tourism sectors.”
According to the official, the four-year plan is a multiagency undertaking involving the Environmental Protection Administration, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and Sports Affairs Council.
“As part of the project, the agencies will work hand in hand with local governments whose regions the network passes through to formulate pilot programs aimed at spurring employment, small and medium business activity and real estate development,” the official said, adding that the CEPD is responsible for coordinating efforts and ensuring implementation.
The promotion of cycling as a pastime and tourism revenue earner has long been on the central government’s policymaking radar, the official said. “Such a goal makes perfect sense given Taiwan is a global leader in manufacturing quality bikes and boasts some of the best cycling routes in the world.”
Overseas validation of the country’s top-notch credentials as a leading bike tourism destination is on the rise.
In March, Taiwan’s east coast was rated the world’s second best destination for cycling holidays by United Arab Emirates daily, The National. And later in the month, the area around Sun Moon Lake in Nantou County was named one of the planet’s most breathtaking cycling routes by travel website CNNGo.
