On the morning of June 18, 2024, Mayor Chiang Wan-An, with the participation of other officials, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Taipei City Songshan District Xisong Elementary School Activity Center New Construction Project. The ceremony included prayers for the project's successful execution and the safety and smooth operation of the staff and machinery.
Hsiao Chih-Lung, the head of the Public Works Section, New Construction Office, Public Works Bureau, noted that Xisong Elementary School, established during the period of Japanese rule, has buildings mostly from the 1950s to 1970s, now over 50 years old. Due to aging facilities and a shortage of sports and indoor venues, a project was developed to build a new multifunctional steel frame activity center to meet the expectations of school teachers and students as well as the needs of local people. This center, with two underground and six above-ground floors, will include a swimming pool, kindergarten, auditorium, rhythm classroom, and a multi-sports court. Additionally, the underground parking will offer 256 car and 280 scooter spaces. This project aims to solve the school's lack of indoor activity space and provide ample parking for the local community, promoting shared use of the campus resources.
Huang Chia-Wei, the head of the Nangang Construction Branch, Public Works Section, noted that W. Y. Chen Architects & Associates was commissioned to design and supervise the project. The building's design is inspired by the concepts of “water ripples”, “dynamic notes”, and “energy of motion”, which correspond to the swimming pool, auditorium, and sports court, respectively. These concepts are reflected in the use of blue, red, and yellow, ensuring the building is aesthetically pleasing and functional. The facade of the building features a simple light gray base, complemented by colorful frames and grilles to give it a lively and distinct look, enhancing the center's place identity.
Huang concluded by noting that the contract for the project was finalized with Chun Yuan Construction Co., Ltd. on January 12, 2024, with a construction period of 1,200 calendar days. The aim is to realize the school's diverse educational goals, establish a new landmark for education in Taipei, and offer high-quality, sustainable, friendly, and safe spaces for teaching and activities to students, staff, and the local community.