Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Surveys on Community Support for Friendly Streets and Silver Zones Traffic Calming Schemes

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Transport

a. whether the Ministry has conducted (i) any surveys on community support for the Friendly Streets and Silver Zones traffic calming schemes and (ii) longitudinal studies on the impact of the traffic calming schemes on road safety; and

b. if so, whether the Ministry can share its findings.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been implementing Friendly Streets and Silver Zones, which have road features to slow down motorists so that pedestrians can have a safer walking environment. Works for two of the five pilot Friendly Streets have completed and works for the remaining three sites are ongoing. We have implemented Silver Zones since 2014. We have seen an 80% reduction in the accident rate among senior pedestrians within Silver Zones.

2. Prior to implementation, the LTA engages the community when developing features within the Friendly Streets and Silver Zones. We have received positive responses. For example, 9 in 10 respondents living near the five pilot Friendly Streets felt that the traffic calming measures and pedestrian-friendly features would further improve safety in their neighbourhoods. More than 80% of motorists and pedestrians felt that the Silver Zone implemented at Circuit Road contributed to a safer road environment, and are supportive of the various improvements within the zone.