Shibuya comes to Singapore: Joo Chiat to trial Tokyo-style scramble crossing from Nov 16

From November 16, the bustling junction of Joo Chiat Road and East Coast Road in Singapore will be transformed with a Tokyo-style scramble crossing, inspired by the famous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo. This innovative traffic arrangement aims to improve road safety during a three-month trial period, according to a report by Singapore-based media organisation CNA.

However, this new crossing comes with its own set of challenges, including potential longer waiting times for both motorists and pedestrians, as well as a permanent ban on right turns from East Coast Road into Joo Chiat Road.

This unique initiative is the first of its kind in Singapore, which currently has only one scramble crossing near Lau Pa Sat. Previous trials near Orchard Road in 2006 and 2017 were not made permanent. The idea for this latest experiment was sparked by safety concerns at the popular Katong intersection, where turning vehicles have been observed dangerously close to pedestrians.

Community leader and Marine Parade-Braddell Heights MP Goh Pei Ming noted that this area is frequently busy, and instances of near misses involving turning vehicles and pedestrians have been observed.

The plan involves a dedicated crossing phase for pedestrians, allowing them to move in any direction, including diagonally, while all vehicles remain stationary. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will deploy wardens and install advance signs to assist road users in adjusting to this new system. Despite the promise of improved pedestrian convenience and safety, the LTA has highlighted that longer waiting times may occur for both motorists and pedestrians during the trial period.

Transport economist Walter Theseira believes that such crossings could enhance the pedestrian experience and potentially benefit businesses by attracting more foot traffic. The Katong-Joo Chiat neighbourhood has also previously explored the idea of a car-free zone, with a six-hour closure of part of Joo Chiat Road on October 3 drawing over 5,000 people.

LTA will closely monitor traffic and pedestrian conditions throughout the trial before making a decision on whether to permanently retain the new crossing. For Goh, the ultimate goal of this experiment goes beyond traffic management; he hopes that a successful scramble crossing could become a distinctive and exciting feature of Katong-Joo Chiat, making it welcoming for all who visit.