Singapore Plans to Build a 15-Mile Park Along an Abandoned Train Line

Singapore’s Keretapi Tanah Melayu railroad, built in 1903, once transported produce across the island nation. Originally envisioned as part of a far-reaching international rail network, the train line fell into disuse and was officially retired in 2011, according to Gizmodo. Now, Singapore has announced that the abandoned railroad will be given new life, as a 15-mile park and recreation center, spanning the entire length of the nation from north to south.

According to Arch Daily, Japanese design firm Nikken Sekkei, in collaboration with Tierra Design and Arup Singapore, will design the park. The team’s proposal, called “Lines of Life,” was chosen by Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority, and will include footpaths and bike routes throughout the green spaces.

While other countries have converted old train lines into parks and public spaces, Singapore’s proposed railway park is impressive in terms of both scale and ambition: Nikkei Sekkei wants the park to be a truly immersive space, and has plans for camping grounds, educational programs, plazas for movie screenings and events, a cafe, and even amenities like showers. The design company explains that the line will act as “a catalyst to development and community bonding,” bringing together “communities on both sides into the life of the rail corridor by providing a continuous high quality public space” [PDF].

But don’t buy your plane tickets to Singapore just yet: The park is still in the early development stage. In the meantime, check out Arch Daily's report for concept images of the park.

[h/t: Arch Daily, Gizmodo]