Actor James Wen joins forces with designer Kai-Wei Song in a cross-disciplinary collaboration, transforming the embankment in front of Fushan Fude Temple into a cinematic visual experience. Drawing on local culture and “theatrical composition,” the mural unfolds like a scene straight out of a film. Curious about the creative concept and process behind this new landmark? Click the video and hear the story behind this unique collaboration.

Location: No. 125, Section 9, Yanping North Road, Shilin District (levee in front)

According to the Hydraulic Engineering Office (HEO) of the Public Works Department, the project site covers approximately 2.6 hectares and will consist of a twin-building complex with nine floors above ground and three basement levels, with a total floor area of approximately 90,779 square meters. The Concert Hall will include a 1,500-seat concert hall, along with rehearsal spaces, backstage support facilities, and administrative offices for orchestras, meeting the needs of professional performances and regular rehearsals. The library component will include open- and closed-stack collections, approximately 3,000 reading seats, and multifunctional exhibition and learning spaces. Smart borrowing and return systems, along with digital archives, will be introduced to enhance service capabilities.

The project will comply with Taipei’s Green Building Self-Government Ordinance and is expected to achieve a Diamond-level Green Building certification, as well as meet Grade 1+ building energy efficiency and smart building certification standards. Furthermore, Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been incorporated during the design phase to strengthen design integration and construction management efficiency. The concert hall and library will operate with separate electromechanical systems, facilitating future operations and maintenance. Energy-saving, water-efficient, and rainwater recycling systems will also be adopted to reduce long-term operational costs.

The Public Works Section of the HEO noted that structural load standards for library spaces have been enhanced based on usage characteristics. High-density archive areas and general floors are designed with different load capacities to ensure structural safety and long-term use. Basement levels incorporate reinforced waterproofing, drainage, and typhoon resilience measures. System flexibility has also been reserved to accommodate future operational adjustments and equipment upgrades. The overall design complies with urban design review principles. Setback entrances provide buffer spaces, pedestrian and vehicular circulation are separated, and public safety management is strengthened, balancing traffic impact with neighborhood considerations.

The HEO added that it has supported the project since the planning and design stage, including urban design review, building permit applications, procurement, and green building certification. It is also responsible for cross-disciplinary coordination, including architecture, structural engineering, acoustics, and MEP systems. During construction, quality, safety, and progress will be strictly managed, with continued community engagement.

To ensure transparency and integrity, the city government has implemented a Government Procurement Integrity Platform, promoting information disclosure and cross-sector collaboration. This mechanism establishes communication channels among prosecutors, anti-corruption agencies, experts, scholars, and the public, strengthening external oversight and preventing improper interference. It aims to ensure that major public infrastructure projects are delivered on time, to standard, and with full integrity.

The project site was formerly the Taipei office of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and is a key public land asset. During the planning stage, the Department of Cultural Affairs proposed the development of a mid-sized professional concert hall to address demand for performance venues as well as to serve as a resident venue for the Taipei Symphony Orchestra and the Taipei Chinese Orchestra. At the same time, in response to the redevelopment needs of the Taipei Public Library’s central library and the advancement of digital reading, plans were developed for a smart central library. Following cross-departmental coordination and integrated planning, the project evolved into a combined development integrating library and concert hall functions, bringing together reading, learning, and cultural performance spaces.

Commissioned by the Department of Cultural Affairs and the Taipei Public Library, the project is being implemented by the Hydraulic Engineering Office of the Public Works Department. Construction is targeted for completion by the end of 2030, upon which it will provide Taipei with enhanced cultural and educational facilities and strengthen overall public service capacity.

In response to challenges such as climate change and high-density urban development, Taipei City has actively developed a resilient and sustainable water governance framework. By integrating the strengths of the three key water agencies—the Feitsui Reservoir Administration, Taipei Water Department, and the Sewerage Systems Office—the city has advanced a coordinated approach centered on source protection, water supply management, and resource circulation control. Through cross-agency collaboration, Taipei continues to promote a healthy water city and resilient water governance, while strengthening its urban water cycle system.

Taipei has been advancing sewer system development for more than five decades. As of October 2026, the household sewer connection rate has reached 83.16%, ranking first nationwide. These efforts have not only improved the urban environment but also effectively reduced river pollution. In the face of urban growth, aging infrastructure, and climate change, the SSO has adopted forward-looking strategies focusing on network system optimization, treatment efficiency enhancement, resource recycling, and disaster resilience strengthening. These integrated measures ensure proper wastewater treatment, safeguard public health, protect water environments, and support sustainable development.

The SSO further noted that its policy goals include achieving full self-sufficiency in wastewater treatment by 2030 and increasing the household sewer connection rate to 90% by 2032, thereby building a safe, resilient, and sustainable water resource system. At present, both the Dihua and Neihu sewage treatment plants have introduced performance-based contracts and carbon reduction operations, while continuing to promote reclaimed water reuse. The upper areas of treatment plants have also been transformed into all-age-friendly recreational parks, demonstrating how sewer infrastructure has evolved from single-purpose facilities into multifunctional spaces that integrate resilience, disaster prevention, greening, and education.

In addition, the SSO has collaborated with the Feitsui Reservoir Administration and the Taipei Water Department to organize the “Taipei Water Journey” program. Through environmental education initiatives, the program encourages students to incorporate water conservation and protection practices into their daily lives and to actively promote these concepts. Moving forward, the SSO will continue to leverage professional expertise and innovation to lead wastewater infrastructure development nationwide.

SSO Director Huang Chun stated that the five award-winning projects this year include the 2024 West District Sewer Relocation and Back Alley Beautification Project, the 2024 Integrated Sewer Network, Branch Lines, and Household Drainage Equipment Design-Build Project, the Design-Build Project for Expanding Sewer Connections in Low-Connection Areas and Vacuum Truck-Served Households (Southeast District), the 2024 Sewer Inspection, Rehabilitation, and Life Extension Project (Lot 2) , and the 2022–2025 West District Branch Sewer Inspection, Rehabilitation, and Life Extension Project. These projects represent the core responsibilities of the SSO. The awards highlight the Office’s achievements in sewer network construction, household connections, community wastewater treatment, alleyway beautification, and pipeline inspection and rehabilitation. Through close collaboration among designers, supervisors, and contractors, the projects have been delivered on schedule and to a high standard, demonstrating strong technical capabilities and producing substantial results.

Huang further noted that sewerage systems are essential infrastructure and a key indicator of urban modernization. Taipei has more than five decades of experience in sewer system development. As of the end of August 2026, the city’s sewer connection rate has reached 83.10%, with a total pipeline length of approximately 2,722 kilometers, making Taipei one of the leading cities nationwide in sewer connections, wastewater treatment, and service quality. For areas where sewer service connections remain difficult, the SSO and its contractors have worked together to engage extensively with residents, investing time and effort to overcome various challenges and ensure the completion of sewer connections.

Chief Engineer Liao Chun-hao explained that in some mountainous areas, steep terrain prevents conventional sewer pipelines from reaching certain communities. To address wastewater treatment needs in such areas, the SSO spent two years coordinating with residents in the Baishihu area of Neihu District, securing community consensus and land use approvals. The project was implemented by the SSO in collaboration with the Southeast District design-build team for expanding sewer connections in low-connection areas. By incorporating hydropower and solar energy systems to generate green electricity and adopting a public-private partnership model for operation and maintenance, Taipei’s first community-based wastewater treatment facility was completed. The facility has significantly improved the environment and stream water quality in hillside communities and has received widespread recognition.

Liao also pointed out that for sewer pipelines already in operation, the SSO adopts trenchless spiral wound lining and expanded lining technologies in rehabilitation projects to minimize disruptions to daily life and traffic. These methods reduce the need for workers to enter pipelines, thereby significantly lowering occupational safety risks. Once rehabilitated, pipelines can remain in service for more than 30 years. The SSO continues to advance sewer infrastructure development while maintaining strict standards for project progress, safety, and quality, ensuring that all projects are completed on time, to specification, and with zero occupational accidents.

The SSO emphasized that sewerage infrastructure improves public health and environmental sanitation, helps prevent pollution of rivers and the environment, enhances water quality and waterfront recreational spaces, and supports the sustainable use of water resources. Moving forward, the SSO will continue working with the public to build Taipei into a sustainable, livable, and healthy global city.

The HEO stated that the data speak for themselves. Monitoring data for 2025 show that biodiversity has more than doubled overall, and the ecological carrying capacity of the downstream Zhinan River survey area has improved significantly. Bird surveys recorded 64 species from 32 families, with a total of 429 sightings, representing substantial growth in species richness compared with the pre-construction period in 2022. Among them were six endemic species of Taiwan, including the Taiwan blue magpie, Taiwan barbet, and Taiwan whistling thrush.

The most eye-catching finding in this round of monitoring was undoubtedly the reappearance of the critically endangered yellow-margined box turtle. In the past, both sides of Zhinan River were lined with steep, three-sided concrete embankments, forming an almost insurmountable barrier for reptiles such as turtles and cutting off their routes between waterside foraging grounds and forest habitats.

The HEO explained that the project successfully removed approximately 6,861 square meters of concrete revetment, all of which was recycled on site and reused as stone masonry material. The formerly steep embankments were transformed into gentle waterside slopes and riparian forest belts. This strategy of “loosening the embankment” broke down physical barriers and created a valuable movement corridor for the keeled box turtle.

The improved habitat has also attracted the return of top predators. The monitoring team recorded as many as nine Chinese sparrowhawks in the airspace above Zhinan River, the highest number documented among all HEO monitoring sites in 2025. The crested serpent eagle, crested goshawk, and mountain scops owl were also recorded consistently, indicating that the local ecological chain is becoming more complete and healthy.

Vitality is equally strong at the boundary between land and water. Survey records showed 18 species of odonates in the area. In particular, the riffle zones created by the project have significantly increased the numbers of species that prefer flowing water, including the black stream glider and the Taiwan-endemic Euphaea formosa. Populations of damselflies such as the orange-tailed sprite and the red sprite have also increased substantially due to the establishment of vegetation along the gently sloping river banks. For amphibians, surveys recorded 10 species from 5 families, including 28 sightings of the robust buerger's frog.

The transformation of Zhinan River stemmed from a shift in river management thinking. Upholding the principle that “rivers should not be governed solely by flood control standards, but should also provide living space for nature,” the HEO adopted near-natural engineering methods to restore the river’s natural meanders and varied topography by “lowering floodplains and creating riffles.” This has reestablished a diversity of pools, riffles, and gravel bars as habitat for wildlife.

The stone weirs and riffle zones formed with stacked rocks have effectively increased dissolved oxygen in the water while also providing spawning grounds for aquatic insects and fish, which in turn attract common kingfisher and herons to perch and forage. Monitoring has found that less commonly seen resident birds such as the striated heron have already begun using these newly created gravel bars as hunting grounds.

In addition, the project narrowed the original 5-meter-wide pathway to 2.5 meters, returning more space to nature, and supplemented the area with 36 species of native plants, including yanagi ichigo and Chinese chaste tree, to create a riparian zone capable of natural succession. This has made it easier for animals active along the forest edge, such as the taiwan crab-eating mongoose and formosan masked palm civet, to move between the river bed and the forest in search of food.

After its completion in late June 2024, this revitalized river received multiple honors, including an Award of Excellence in the inaugural Taiwan Rivers of Hope Awards and the international 2025 IFLA Asia Pacific Landscape Architecture Award. The project not only provides the public with an inviting waterside space, but also sets a new benchmark for urban river restoration across Taiwan, proving that when space is returned to nature, life can once again flourish in the city.

According to the Hydraulic Engineering Office (HEO) of the Taipei City Government, a themed sea of flowers has been created at Guting Riverside Park, covering approximately 8,875 square meters, roughly equivalent to the size of 21 basketball courts, forming an expansive floral landscape. Among the highlights are 50,000 golden-yellow and pink snapdragons, whose blossoms sway gently in the breeze, creating captivating wave-like patterns across the fields. In addition, about 60,000 plants of purple-blue salvia (locally known as “a string of purple”) have been planted, along with a combined total of 80,000 Victoria blue salvia, lavender, and diviner’s sage. Their rich fragrance and distinctive textures create an atmosphere reminiscent of the countryside in southern France.

Notably, two dreamy flower varieties—baby blue eyes and misty plume bush—have been introduced for the first time this year. Visitors no longer need to travel all the way to Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan to see the mesmerizing “baby blue” fields of baby blue eyes, as they can now experience this enchanting scene right here in Taipei. Meanwhile, the cloud-like pink blossoms of misty plume bush add a soft romantic charm to every corner of the riverside park, filling the space with the poetic beauty of early spring. The HEO has also artistically incorporated orange-toned seasonal flowers and snapdragons into the design. Through bold color-contrast aesthetics, the floral carpet is infused with warmth and vitality.

Beyond the spectacular sea of flowers, several art installations have been placed throughout the park, creating perfect photo backdrops for visitors. These include whimsical dandelion-themed installations that sparkle in the sunlight, wooden tent structures that evoke the relaxed atmosphere of a riverside picnic, and floral net installations that extend the visual experience of the flower fields from flat landscapes into three-dimensional space. These installations not only enrich the scenery but also provide diverse photo angles, making every picture taken at Guting Riverside Park feel like a postcard.

Guting Riverside Park is conveniently located near MRT stations and the Gongguan shopping district. Visitors can cycle along the riverside bike paths to reach the park, or take the MRT to Guting Station or Gongguan Station and walk to the site. Next to the flower fields lies a spacious lawn, making it an ideal place for families to bring picnic mats and spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by fragrant blossoms. Visitors can enjoy this purple-toned romantic landscape thoughtfully created by the HEO and create beautiful memories for the new year.

In addition to the Guting Riverside sea of flowers, the HEO also recommends another weekend destination—the “Dinosaur Resurrection: Guandu Adventure Park” at Guandu Wharf in Beitou. This is Taipei’s first large-scale outdoor dinosaur park, spanning about 4,959 square meters and featuring nearly 70 life-sized, realistic animatronic dinosaurs. The immersive prehistoric setting creates a striking visual experience. In this spacious outdoor adventure area, children can run and play freely, making it a perfect family-friendly weekend activity. Visitors are warmly invited to bring the whole family and come explore together.

Flower Bloom Updates:  Facebook: “Taipei HEO” (https://pse.is/465ug6)

Taipei Riverside Flower Viewing Map: https://reurl.cc/my5a2A

Taipei Riverside Sea of Flowers: https://english.heo.gov.taipei/cp.aspx?n=F3D7464EBB32251F

Search on Google Maps:

1. Guting Riverside Park Basketball Court (PLUS CODE: 2G7G+Q7 Zhongzheng District, Taipei City)

2. Guting Riverside Park Heart Arch (PLUS CODE: 2G6H+R2 Zhongzheng District, Taipei City)

Getting There by Public Transportation

1. Bus: Take routes Small 30, 895, 311, 311 Shuttle, or 254 Shuttle and get off at Taipei Water Park (Museum of Drinking Water) Stop. Walk along Siyuan Street toward Yongfu Bridge for about 10 minutes. Enter Guting Riverside Park via the levee stairs beneath Yongfu Bridge. After descending the stairs, turn right to reach the flower fields.

2. MRT: Take the Songshan–Xindian Line to Gongguan Station (Exit 4). Turn into Lane 24, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, then turn right onto Section 3, Tingzhou Road, and left onto Siyuan Street. Walk toward Yongfu Bridge for about 10 minutes and enter the park via the levee stairs beneath the bridge. After descending the stairs, turn right to reach the flower fields.

3. Taipei Riverside Bike Rental Station: Jingfu Station 

4. YouBike 2.0 Stations: NTU Archives Museum Station; Taipei Water Department Station; NTU Shuiyuan Hsiu-Chi House; Shuiyuan Road No. 11-1 Station; MRT Gongguan Station (Exit 4); Taipei Water Park Station

Zhuzihu combines local flower industries with natural and cultural resources to develop leisure agriculture. It is one of the three major leisure agriculture areas in Taipei City. During May and June, a variety of colorful hydrangeas bloom, featuring terraces, flower walls, and flower seas in diverse forms.

Please visit  Flowers in Taipei website for more information.

With the arrival of spring, azaleas are in full bloom, and together with hydrangeas, buddleias, dahlias, and lavenders, Taipei becomes enshrouded in romantic shades of pink. With Daan Forest Park as the event venue, the festival comprises of music concerts, reading tours, and handicraft classes that are held in conjunction with the surrounding businesses of the South Town Area.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the music and view the beautiful flowers at the “Floral Picnic,” a perfect event for family outings. A series of cultural events and art fairs injects the city with new warmth and vibrancy this spring.

Please visit   Flowers in Taipei website for more information.

It cultivates more than 800 varieties and over 5,000 rose plants from around the world. Visitors can enjoy different varieties of roses throughout the year, indulging in a feast for both the eyes and the senses of smell. The garden features several themed areas, including the “Secret Garden,” “Colorful Rose Garden,” “Breeders’ Garden,” “Sea of Flowers Area,” and “Variety Area.”

With its romantic European-style landscape, it has become a must-visit dating destination for couples.

Please visit   Flowers in Taipei website for more information.

   First, the "Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” which received the "Top Prize", created a lighting environment aimed at enhancing the quality of the city’s nighttime spaces while safeguarding pedestrian safety. Guided by four core principles of “people centered design, safety and comfort, energy saving and carbon reduction, and strengthening the identity of the Dawan River corridor,” the project not only incorporated smart energy saving technologies, but also used artistic lighting to transform this urban greenway into a nighttime aesthetic space that integrates historical memory with an eco friendly approach. Along the main circulation routes, the project installed low glare floodlights and landscape luminaires with an IP65 high protection rating to ensure safe nighttime passage. Key lighting was also used to highlight focal points such as the “Water Light Ring” and the “Fish School Sculpture,” guiding pedestrian flow. “Ripple pattern lights” were adopted to recreate the historical texture of the Dawan River channel. In addition, planters and seating areas were paired with indirect lighting using both rigid and flexible linear lights to create a warm and gentle atmosphere for rest and relaxation. High efficiency LED lighting was selected across the entire area and integrated with a smart control system to achieve energy savings and carbon reduction. For planted areas, the design adopts “low color temperature lighting at 3300K, low backlight, and no blue light pollution” to help protect biodiversity. This renovation not only enhances the pedestrian experience, but also uses light and shadow as a form of storytelling, making the Liugong Green Corridor a low carbon, people friendly nighttime highlight in the city with meaningful cultural depth.

Second, the “Zhongzheng Bridge Reconstruction Project”, which received the “Award of Excellence”, was recognized for using light and shadow as a medium to showcase the modern strength of the “new steel bridge” structure, adding a new urban landmark to the nighttime scenery along the Xindian River. The new Zhongzheng Bridge adopts a long span steel arch bridge design with no piers placed in the river. Its twin arch rib truss system showcases modern engineering capability. A smart dimming system is integrated within the 285 meter arch ribs, and 2700K warm white lighting is used to highlight the texture and presence of the steel structure. The suspension cables are illuminated from below with carefully controlled light distribution, creating a distant view that resembles strings dancing above the water’s surface. In addition, the project strictly controlled lighting angles to effectively prevent light pollution and reduce disturbance to the aquatic ecosystem, putting its commitment to environmental friendliness into practice.

These awards fully demonstrate the New Construction Office’s strength in lighting design and affirm Taipei City’s outstanding achievements in advancing people centered lighting, ecological sustainability, and the integration of history with the modern urban environment. Both projects were highly regarded and recognized by the review committee, resulting in awards for each. Together, they also make an outstanding contribution to Taipei City’s urban lighting aesthetics and overall cityscape.

According to the HEO, the Guting Riverside floral display kicks off in February. The area is decorated with 250,000 flowers in shades of pink and purple. Varieties like Snapdragon, Mealycup Sage, Spider Flower, Lavender, and Musk Shrub wind through the park like colorful ribbons, and the display will run through mid-March. Everyone is invited to bring their cameras and strike their best poses for a spring outing at Guting. Follow the dancing butterflies through fields of blossoms and make use of the rest tents set up throughout the park. Wander among the flowers for picture-perfect moments, and when it’s time to pause, relax under the warm winter sun and clear blue skies—welcoming 2026 with positive vibes.

Making its debut in January 2026 the Dagou Creek flower sea is equally captivating! A total of 26,000 plants—including Scarlet Sage, Mealycup Sage, and marigolds—are now in full bloom across an area of approximately 743 square meters. This year’s theme, “Water Abyss,” presents flowing patterns that resemble rippling water cascading over green slopes. Visitors to the Dagouxi Ecology and Water-Control Park can follow charming animal installations through the wave-like floral displays, creating a vibrant visual feast. Engage all five senses as you listen to the gentle murmur of the stream and the constant, lively chorus of birdsong.

Located a 10-15 walk from MRT Gongguan Station and the Gongguan Shopping District, Guting Riverside Park’s flower sea sits next to the basketball courts. After viewing the blooms, take time to explore the Gongguan area or Treasure Hill Artist Village for local treats and a relaxed, nostalgic vibe. Located within the Dagouxi Ecology and Water-Control Park, the flower sea is easy to reach. Visitors can get there with a 15 minute walk from the Wenhu Line's MRT Dahu Park Station. In addition to Dahu Park, there are several hiking trails nearby, making it ideal for planning half-day travel itineraries.

Come celebrate the spring holidays with us! The HEO welcomes couples, families, and friends to experience the flowers and unwind together. It’s the perfect way to recharge and kick off a prosperous, peaceful year where everything goes your way! 

According to the HEO, the Shezidao Wetland’s thriving bird life has turned it into a premier birdwatching destination, a rare natural escape in the heart of Northern Taiwan. According to monitoring data from January to March, 2025, a total of 53 species from 29 families was recorded, reaching 1,412 total sightings. The diversity of protected bird species is especially noteworthy. Alongside the endangered Class I Black-faced Spoonbill, the survey recorded six Class II “Rare and Valuable” species—Hen Harrier, Crested Goshawk, Black-winged Kite, Short-eared Owl, Greater Painted-snipe, and Crested Myna—together with Class III protected species including the Brown Shrike and Black-headed Munia. It is worth mentioning that the nocturnal “Short-eared Owl” was caught on camera, thanks to infrared technology mounted on raptor perches.

The “Common Snipe” is undoubtedly the highlight of birdwatching activities at Shezidao Wetland! According to the HEO, the elusive Common Snipe typically hides along the edges of wetland plants. However, winter 2025 saw a surprising surge, with numbers hitting an all-time high for this time of year. The success is largely attributed to habitat engineering that kept belts of reeds as hiding spots during low tide. Additionally, large-scale floating islands act as crucial sanctuaries for birds to rest during high tide. This “bird-friendly facility” has encouraged the naturally shy Common Snipes to stay longer.

There is also good news for fans of sandpipers, plovers, and other small wading birds. While global environmental shifts have been challenging, Shezidao Wetland’s habitat improvements are paying dividends, with small wader populations now on the rebound. According to statistics, compared to the low point in 2023, there is a 33% increase in small winter wader populations, indicating that habitat engineering projects are having a positive impact on ecological restoration. Although numbers of the Green-winged Teal have diminished in line with regional trends across the Tamsui River, they are still the most common winter visitors. Importantly, the wetland’s total biodiversity remains remarkably high.

Now is the ideal season for winter residents and spring migrants! The HEO encourages the public to head to the Shezidao Wetland Information Pavilion and nearby trails this weekend. Grab your binoculars and look for these feathered wetland visitors, but remember to stay back from the water’s edge so as not to disturb them. Let’s work together to safeguard this rare natural sanctuary.

The Shilin Residence Tulip Festival features more than 100,000 tulips from the Netherlands and Japan, arranged into exquisite floral fields that have turned the park into a popular Instagram-worthy site. 

Visitors can delight in the romantic beauty of tulips in temperate climates without having to travel abroad.

Please find more information on  Flowers in Taipei Website.

The hillside landscape is meticulously designed with tiers of grass and flowers to create an image of the great-crested vulture when viewed from an elevated position. More than 16,000 lavenders are in full bloom, accompanied by layers of sage and nasturtium, creating a cascading floral tapestry reminiscent of the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields in Hokkaido.

The Shan-Tseng-Chi Park has become “Taiwan’s version of Furano,” drawing visitors all over the island to enjoy the spectacular view.

Please visit  Flowers in Taipei website for more information.

The concept underpinning the award-winning “Da’an Junior High School Comprehensive Teaching Building New Construction Project” is to create a diverse, forward-looking, welcoming, vibrant, and cultured learning environment, delivering a safe, high-quality, and comfortable modern junior high school, and, in line with a multi-purpose use strategy, to include a two-level underground parking facility to meet the needs of both the school and nearby residents. The building comprises six above-ground floors, housing 64 instructional spaces (including 45 general classrooms, 15 specialized classrooms, four special education classrooms, and a library) and 20 administrative offices; the two underground levels serve as a public parking facility, providing 223 car parking spaces and 52 scooter parking spaces. Since its completion and opening, it has received recognition from teachers, students, and parents alike, becoming a high-quality campus that inspires students to pursue and realize their dreams. 

Secondly, the “Songshan and Xinyi Districts Urban Roads Project” responded to the Taipei City Government’s smart city governance vision by adopting performance-based contract management, integrating AI-powered intelligent inspections with PCI indicator assessments to promptly rectify deficiencies and improve pavement quality under limited resources; it also optimized school-zone commuting environments and barrier-free sidewalks, significantly enhancing traffic safety and road users’ sense of security. In addition, the New Construction Office has taken the national lead in establishing carbon footprint assessments for road engineering projects and in applying recycled materials such as foamed asphalt to advance the principles of the circular economy. Through technology-driven management and carbon-reduction techniques, it has achieved both high construction quality and sustainable development, demonstrating strong exemplary value and significantly enhancing road user satisfaction.

Finally, in the individual award category, Director Ming-Hui Wang has served with the New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government since 2009. Over the years, he has successively held positions including Project Engineer in charge at the Public Works Office, Section Chief of the Public Works Division, and Director of the Public Works Division, accumulating more than 15 years of extensive practical experience, and has delivered tangible results in construction quality management and the promotion of innovative systems. Among the projects under his leadership, the “Fuhe Bridge South Sidewalk Widening and Bicycle Wheel Ramp Project” received the Ministry of Labor’s Golden Safety Award for Outstanding Construction, while the “Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” was honored with Top Distinction at the 24th Public Construction Golden Quality Award in 2024. At this year’s Golden Quality Award, he was unanimously praised by the award jury and was presented with a Grade A Individual Contribution Award.

Ming-Shen Kao, Chief of the Public Works Section, New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, stated that Taipei Municipal Lixing Elementary School was established in 1988. Nearby are Jingmei Girls High School and the Examination Yuan, and the school is also close to excellent institutions of higher education such as National Chengchi University and Shih Hsin University, making it one of Taipei City’s thriving cultural and educational areas. However, since the school was founded, physical constraints, including a limited campus area and a lack of indoor activity and semi-outdoor activity spaces for students, have significantly affected school development, further underscoring the urgency of constructing the new activity center. Accordingly, the Taipei City Government has proposed a plan to construct a new activity center, including a one-level underground parking facility and a five-story above-ground facility comprising an activity center, a swimming pool, an activity platform, and kindergarten classrooms, with the expectation of building a multifunctional activity center building as the foundation for the school’s future all-round campus development and to meet the kindergarten’s teaching needs.

Shih-Chen Tian, director of the Zhongzheng Office of the Public Works Section, New Construction Office, stated that Hsuyuan Kuo Architects & Associates were commissioned to carry out the design and construction supervision for this project. As the Taipei Municipal Li Xing Primary School site lies on the boundary of Muzha and Wenshan District, it is hoped that this activity center will in the future become Wenshan District’s new living hub, as well as a “public living room” where the city and natural landscape intersect, and will echo the four visions of Taipei Municipal Li Xing Primary School, guided by the principle of putting true knowledge into action: “Sincerity: Care and Inclusivity”, “Knowledge: Respect for Virtue and Diligence in Learning”, “Dedication: Pursuit of Excellence”, and “Action: Enthusiasm and Vitality”. The new activity center’s spatial planning includes an activity center, sports courts, a swimming pool, an activity platform, kindergarten classrooms, and parking spaces; by leveraging the diversity and variety of activity spaces, it will provide students with a diversified learning environment and meet the school’s future needs. In design, the campus activity spaces will be extended to a large activity platform, linked with the riverside environment to create diverse and varied activity venues, and a long-span steel structural system will be adopted to create, in an economically efficient manner, a free and flexible activity center and swimming pool, while the greenbelt along the Jingmei River will be extended into the campus environment to create a friendly, naturally ventilated green building environment, together creating a friendly campus for diverse learning.

Shih-Chen Tian explained that this project commenced on April 22, 2024, and that the topping-out ceremony held on January 19, 2026 is an important phased achievement of the project; the overall project is expected to be completed in 2027, and it is hoped that, after completion, it will realize the school’s educational vision, create a new highlight of Taipei City’s education and promote the distinctive development of the community, providing all faculty and students and community residents with a high quality, sustainable, friendly, and safe space for teaching and activities.

In addition to the spring scenery of the mountains and the “Flower Clock” of Yangmingshan, visitors will also be surrounded by a variety of cherry blossoms, including Yamazakura, Kanzakura, Yaezakura, Shōwazakura, and Yoshino cherry blossoms, as well as the Hirado and Golden Azalea blooming in the woods. Hike up the mountain or go for an outing to catch a glimpse of this beautiful flower festival.

Please view more information on Flowers in Taipei website.

Please see more information on Flowers in Taipei website.

According to the HEO, this year’s sea of flowers is themed around the imagery of “Ecology and Waterscape.” Drawing inspiration from the rippling patterns of water, the floral display across the lawn presents flowing and converging forms, extending like stream-shaped motifs over the green slopes. The main flower varieties include scarlet sage, marigolds, petunias, and mealy sage. Featuring winter blooms in shades of purple and red, the flowers intertwine to create rich, colorful layers, delivering a visually dynamic effect while also fostering a natural and lively atmosphere.

The River Administration Section of the HEO noted that, in addition to the beautiful water-pattern designs adorning the grassland, many charming small animals can be spotted sharing the space with visitors. Up close, little egrets can be seen moving between nearby lawns and pathways, while rabbits and squirrels appear among the flower beds, adding a sense of movement and playful vitality to the overall landscape and making it a popular highlight for photography.

The HEO expressed its hope that by integrating the sea of flowers and landscape design with natural ecology, the site will become a high-quality recreational space suitable for families to enjoy outdoor strolls, relax, and take photos. This winter, the banks of the Dagou Creek are presenting a distinctly lively palette of colors. The public is warmly invited to visit, admire the flowers, take photos, and check in on social media to experience the winter charm of the Dagou Creek sea of flowers.

Transportation to the Sea of Flowers

Search on Google Maps: Dagouxi Ecology and Water-Control Park (https://maps.app.goo.gl/tZNfHgSQa8fELCat9) 

By Bus:

1.    Take Bus 247, 267, 284, 630, 677, Red 2, or Red 31 and get off at Dahu Bus Stop. Walk along Lane 324, Section 4, Chenggong Road toward the river embankment. At the end, turn right and enter Lane 294, Chenggong Road (about 280 meters). Continue along Lane 294 to Lane 131, Dahu Street,

2.    then turn left onto Dahu Shanzhuang Street (about 150 meters). Turn left again to reach the park.

Take Bus Small 3 and get off at Dahu Elementary School Bus Stop. Walk along Dahu Shanzhuang Street for about 130 meters to reach the park.

By MRT:

Take the Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to MRT Dahu Park Station. Exit 1, then walk along Dahu Shanzhuang Street for approximately 750 meters to reach the park.

By Bicycle:

YouBike 2.0 stations available at: Dahu Elementary School, and Dahu Park MRT Station (Exit 2).

Driving:

1.    Set navigation to “Dagouxi Ecology and Water-Control Park.” or “Dagouxi Waterfront Park.”

2.    Parking is available at the Dahu Park Underground Parking Lot.

The HEO noted that flood protection is the most fundamental pillar of urban safety. In response to the challenges posed by extreme rainfall, the Taipei City Government has decided to increase the city’s rainfall tolerance from an hourly intensity of 78.8 millimeters to 88.8 millimeters. To achieve this goal, the city will invest NT$6.5 billion over five years in water management, advancing major projects across key catchment areas including Zhongshan, Bailing, Shilin, and Yuanshan. The HEO further explained that NT$3 billion will be invested in the nation’s first-of-its-kind Dunbei Underground Trunk Drain, which will employ shield tunneling to construct large-scale storage pipes, overcoming land acquisition constraints typically associated with detention basins. A second retention pipe project, the Chengde Road Retention Pipe, is also currently under planning.

To further strengthen overall flood control capacity, pumping stations and detention facilities are being upgraded. Construction is underway on Bailing Pumping Station, the largest in Beitou District, with completion scheduled for 2029. The Zhongshan Pumping Station will undergo expansion with an investment of NT$700 million, with construction set to begin in May next year. The Dalong Pumping Station expansion project (contract value NT$446 million) is expected to be completed in the second half of next year. In addition, Fulin Flood Management Park, the first detention basin in Shilin District, is scheduled for completion by the end of next year, further enhancing residents’ peace of mind.

Taipei is not only committed to safety, but also to helping citizens rediscover the sense of happiness that comes from being close to water. Over the past three years, the city has invested NT$3.2 billion to advance 28 riverbank restoration projects. Among these, the most high-profile initiative is the NT$1.8 billion Tamsui River Waterfront Environmental Development Plan. Construction of Phases 1 and 2 is scheduled for completion next year, with the entire project expected to be completed by the end of 2028. Upon completion, this world-class waterfront corridor will create a new urban landscape for Taipei.

The city has also invested approximately NT$160 million in the revitalization of Dajia Riverside Park, covering an area of 8.6 hectares. Phase I construction has recently commenced, and the park’s water performance plaza, play areas, and flower fields will all be renewed. Renovation works at Guting Riverside Park are likewise ongoing. Riverside playgrounds, a favorite among children, have also seen steady progress. Over the past three years, five brand-new playgrounds have opened, six have been renovated, and five more are currently under construction, ensuring that more joyful spaces will accompany children as they grow.

As part of its continued efforts to restore ecological rivers and improve the water environment, the HEO has implemented the Jingmei River–Zhinan River Confluence Revetment Restoration Project. Along the river stretch from the confluence of the Jingmei River and the Zhinan River to the Zhinan River section near Taipei Municipal Beizheng Junior High School, three-sided concrete revetments were removed and near-natural engineering methods were adopted. This allowed the previously concrete-lined Zhinan River to “breathe” again, improving river morphology and restoring the river ecosystem. Since its completion last year, the project has received multiple honors, including Honorable Mention in the “Nature Conservation” category at the 2025 IFLA Asia-Pacific Regional Landscape Architecture Awards, the Excellence Award in the Environmental Construction Category at the inaugural Taiwan Rivers of Hope Awards, and recognition at the Taiwan Landscape Awards. A second project of the same nature, the Xindian River–Jingmei River Confluence Project, is scheduled for completion in March next year, enabling citizens to reconnect with rivers and embrace nature.

In terms of river and stream rehabilitation, the Huanggang River Restoration Project in Beitou District (from Yanshou Bridge to Sanhe Bridge) is also expected to be completed in March next year. Guided by the principle of “returning land to the river,” the project will create a people-friendly green corridor that both expands flood storage capacity and provides ecological habitats, becoming a new highlight of livability in Beitou. In addition, the Taipei Municipal Minzu Experimental High School project, completed this year with an investment of NT$110 million, has not only improved campus drainage but also enhanced flood protection while adding educational and cultural value.

The HEO emphasized that, in response to the challenges posed by extreme rainfall, it will continue to reinforce urban flood control infrastructure while simultaneously promoting a more friendly and high-quality waterfront environment, making Taipei a city that is genuinely safe, livable, and water-friendly.

Director Kun-Hu Lin of the New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, stated that, as the nation’s capital city, Taipei actively aligns each year with central government policies to improve its roads and pedestrian environment. He also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of the Interior and the evaluation committee members for their guidance and support over the years, which has enabled the Taipei City Government to continuously improve from policy planning to implementation. In addition to ongoing efforts to improve the smoothness of roadways and sidewalks, create barrier-free spaces in the pedestrian environment, and advance common duct construction, Taipei has also actively developed a range of innovative initiatives to enhance overall road quality, such as introducing performance-based contracts for road patrol inspection and maintenance, establishing a visualized management system for roads and ancillary facilities, and implementing a sidewalk clear-width improvement program, among other innovative and smart management measures, with the aim of continuously improving Taipei’s road quality. When it comes to enhancing road quality, there is no “best,” only “better.”

Section Chief Hsuan-Tung Chu of the Utilities Conduit Planning Section, the New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, explained that in addition to continuing people-oriented environment improvement projects such as the Zhongxiao East Road Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project and the Da'an Road pedestrian environment improvement work, the Office is also carrying out road and sidewalk improvement efforts in line with the “Pedestrian Safety in Taipei Plan” established by the Department of Transportation, Taipei City Government, thereby gradually creating a barrier-free, people-oriented environment in the city. These outcomes have also been recognized by residents, the Ministry of the Interior, and members of the evaluation committee and Taipei City will continue to strive for further progress and renewed efforts to provide the public with a people-oriented, resilient, and sustainable mobility environment.

The award-winning Da’an Junior High School Comprehensive Teaching Building New Construction Project was designed to create a diverse, forward-looking, welcoming, vibrant, and cultured learning environment, delivering a safe, high-quality, and comfortable modern junior high school. In line with a multi-purpose use strategy, the project includes a two-level underground parking facility to meet the needs of both the school and nearby residents. The building comprises six above-ground floors, housing 64 instructional spaces - including 45 general classrooms, 15 specialized classrooms, four special education classrooms, and a library - as well as 20 administrative offices. The two underground levels serve as a public parking facility, providing 223 car parking spaces and 52 scooter parking spaces. Since its completion and opening, the building has received strong recognition from teachers, students, and parents alike, and has contributed to a high-quality campus that inspires students to pursue and realize their dreams.

Meanwhile, the Songshan and Xinyi Districts Urban Roads Project embraced the Taipei City Government’s smart city governance vision by adopting performance-based contract management. By integrating AI-powered intelligent inspections with PCI indicator assessments, the project enabled the timely repair of deficiencies and improvements in pavement quality despite limited resources. Also, the project optimized school-zone commuting environments and barrier-free sidewalks, significantly enhancing overall traffic safety and pedestrians’ sense of security. In addition, the New Construction Office has taken the national lead in establishing carbon footprint assessments for road engineering projects and in applying recycled materials such as foamed asphalt to advance the principles of the circular economy. Through the integration of technology-driven management and carbon-reduction techniques, the Office has achieved both high construction quality and sustainable development, demonstrating strong value while significantly enhancing road user satisfaction.

Finally, with respect to the Individual Contribution Award, Director Wang Ming-Hui has served with the New Construction Office of the Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, since 2009. Over the years, he has held positions including Project Engineer in charge at the Public Works Office, Section Chief of the Public Works Division, and Director of the Public Works Division, accumulating more than 15 years of extensive practical experience. He has achieved tangible results in construction quality management and the promotion of innovative systems. Among the projects under his leadership, the Fuhe Bridge Southside Sidewalk Widening Project received the Ministry of Labor’s Golden Safety Award for Outstanding Construction, while the Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project was honored with Top Distinction at the 24th Public Construction Golden Quality Award in 2024. His outstanding performance was unanimously praised by the award jury at this year’s Golden Quality Award, leading to his receipt of the First-Class Individual Contribution Award.

The Shuinan Elevated Connecting Platform Project is a key hub in the Taipei City Government’s plan to develop Nangang, following the Xinyi Planning District, into another area with a comprehensive grade separated pedestrian connectivity system. The platform links Nangang Station, Nangang Station (Taipei Metro), Taipei Music Center, and nearby parks and green spaces. In the future, it will connect with developments along the route to form an elevated pedestrian corridor.

The core value of the Nangang Elevated Connecting Platform Project lies in creating a people-oriented pedestrian space that is friendly, safe, and aesthetically appealing. In terms of lighting design, the project achieves both functionality and visual quality. At night, lighting guides pedestrian movement, enhancing legibility and a sense of safety in the nighttime environment. With “people-oriented walkability” and “linking the East District Green Corridor” as its core concepts, embedded or concealed luminaries are used within the bridge structure, on stairways, and on the platforms. Indirect lighting is applied along railings and edges, effectively controlling glare and light pollution and significantly improving comfort and safety for nighttime users.

In addition to its outstanding light environment performance, the project also places strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Along Civic Boulevard, an ecological green corridor of approximately 800 meters has been developed in parallel. Through the use of permeable paving and multi-layered green spaces, the project creates a high-quality living network with integrated recreational functions, bringing more greenery and breathing space into the busy city.

Thanks to the unique natural climate and slightly acidic soil, it has become an ideal environment for thousands of camellias to grow. Many “early-blooming camellia” varieties begin blooming at the first hint of winter, forming a beautiful floral tunnel.

With the sunlight gleaming through branches and petals falling to the ground, you will feel as if transported to a beautiful scene in a movie. Come admire the elegant bonsai plants and experience this unique camellia forest for yourself.

Please visit Flowers in Taipei website for more information.

The New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government stated that there are a total of 8 roads under Taipei City's jurisdiction, with a combined maintenance route length of approximately 73.3 kilometers, most of which are major urban roads and important connecting roads to New Taipei City, and some are roads serving mountainous areas, all of which are key roads for Taipei City's maintenance. The Taipei City Government takes "Technology, Innovation, and Sustainability" as its core, introducing new construction methods, new materials, and intelligent management to enhance the efficiency of road management.

The New Construction Office explained that the maintenance operations for roads and ancillary facilities in Taipei City involve several agencies, and the Taipei City Government has integrated the related operations and implemented smart management, establishing information systems including a road maintenance management system, a 3D pipeline database, AI automated identification of road defects, ground-penetrating radar inspections of underground cavities, and pavement PCI surveys. To improve road management, a comprehensive survey is conducted for roads and sidewalks, and using the latest spatial information technologies, panoramic imagery and related data are integrated and interfaced to establish a "visual management platform system" to integrate and manage the City’s roads and the road ancillary facilities managed by various agencies.

The New Construction Office further explained that road maintenance in Taipei City has introduced the "Pavement Condition Index (PCI)" survey and the "performance based contract for road patrol, maintenance, and repair". The PCI uses orthophotos for assisted interpretation, and an automated stereoscopic panoramic inspection vehicle and an AI defect identification system have been developed, with related data incorporated into an information system for integrated display, establishing a Taipei City pavement condition database as an important basis for subsequent road maintenance planning and budget utilization. The "Performance-Based Contract (PBC) for Road Patrol, Maintenance, and Repair" differs from traditional technical and process-oriented contract models in that it is a new type of contract that uses output and performance objectives as the evaluation basis, and the contractor is paid by the owner after achieving or exceeding the performance indicators originally set. This mechanism enables the contractor to flexibly apply its expertise to innovate and enhance the benefits of project outputs, allowing the owner, the contractor, and the public to achieve a three way win, and bringing an innovative approach to the execution of work for each project.

Finally, the New Construction Office stated that the Taipei City Government has shifted road maintenance from passive to proactive "intelligent management", and will continue to introduce new technologies to establish maintenance management systems and innovative contract models, develop a more scientific basis for maintenance standards, and use budgets effectively to further enhance the efficiency of Taipei City’s road maintenance.

One is located on the upstream outer bank of the left bank near Shuangxi Bridge. Created with mosaic tiles arranged into playful, whimsical patterns, it draws visitors into a world of joyful memories, evoking the lively and carefree atmosphere of the Taipei Children’s Amusement Park.

The other can be found along the embankment trail stretching from Shilin Bridge to Wenchang Bridge. This revetment illustrates iconic Shilin landmarks and the district’s strong cultural and educational character. Through a seamless interplay of colors and scenes, it feels like the beginning of an imaginative journey unfolding step by step.

With the weather just right, why not plan a relaxed weekend micro-trip to the Shuangxi Riverside? Invite friends, bring the family, and enjoy a leisurely walk filled with color, creativity, and autumn sunshine.

This project also stands out as the only public-sector project from Taiwan to receive an award in the “Nature Conservation” category, underscoring its exceptional significance. This recognition stems from the team’s unwavering commitment to bringing the river back to life. The team removed aging revetments and hardened concrete riverbeds, adopting near-natural engineering approaches that allow the once heavily channelized Zhinan River to breathe again. By improving the river’s form and creating gently sloped, people-friendly banks, the project provides suitable habitats for wildlife while enhancing accessibility and safety. What was once a cold, three-sided concrete channel has been transformed into a river corridor that integrates flood control, ecological restoration, and landscape value. Every inch of change reflects years of dedication and tireless effort.

To restore the river’s vitality, the team engaged in ongoing dialogue with experts and local residents, refining the design through collaboration. All concrete removed during construction was fully reused, reducing transportation needs and carbon emissions and putting net-zero principles into practice. What we have created is not merely a river, but a renewed connection between the city and nature, bringing ecosystems back to life and allowing people and the environment to move forward together. Looking ahead, the HEO will continue its efforts to transform more rivers into some of the city’s most treasured landscapes.

Organizer: Hydraulic Engineering Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government

Design Consultants: Classic Design and Planning Co., Ltd.; Sinotech Engineering Consultants, Ltd.

Construction Contractor: An Hong Construction Co., Ltd.

Construction Supervision Consultant: WISH Engineering & Technical Consultancy Co., Ltd.

The award-winning project is designed and supervised by KHL Architects & Planners, with project management undertaken by EKUO Architects. Construction is carried out by Sansin Builders Co., Ltd. and Yung Long Enterprise Co., Ltd. Located at No. 301, Shidong Road in Shilin District, the site is divided into northern and southern sections and comprises three major new buildings: the “New Vocational Skills Building,” the “Vocational Exploration and Continuing Education Center,” and the “Municipal University Dormitory.” Upon completion, the project will provide professional training facilities for fields such as information and communications technology, electric vehicles, refrigeration and air-conditioning, multimedia, and senior-care industries. It will also add 484 comfortable and inclusive dormitory beds, substantially enhancing Taipei City’s capacity to cultivate skilled technical talent.

In terms of project management and safety protection, the project further demonstrates strong foresight and a high level of technological integration. The construction team implements an occupational safety model featuring top-down policy direction and bottom-up management, and underwent multiple inspections by the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and heads of various city departments, underscoring the joint commitment of the public and private sectors to achieving zero accidents. In addition, the project proactively incorporates smart technologies such as CCTV, AI monitoring, electronic fencing, facial-recognition access control, and anti-tampering alarm systems. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is also utilized for scaffolding simulations and safety analyses, significantly enhancing risk identification and prevention capabilities.

The construction site also fully implements 6S management and the PDCA safety and health cycle. Before the commencement of major works, the team completed high-risk tasks such as relocating electrical transformer boxes, repairing retaining walls, and installing excavation supports to ensure a safe working environment. Ongoing pre-construction training and occupational safety courses are also conducted to strengthen personnel awareness and adherence to standard operating procedures.

The New Construction Office noted that this project centers on “safety, quality, and professionalism.” Through the integration of smart management systems and the full engagement of all personnel, the project has been making progress smoothly on the foundation of zero-accident safety and earned recognition from the Golden Safety Award. The Office further noted that it will continue to promote construction-safety technologies and enhance management efficiency, with the aim of delivering public infrastructure that is safer, more user-friendly, and more forward-looking for the citizens.

The “Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” core concept centers on creating a high-quality, “people-oriented walking environment” and “connecting the green corridors of the Eastern District.” The project targets the southern and northern sides of Lane 135, Section 1 of Fuxing South Road, including the central parking lot area. Through connecting the southern road section, adjusting the roadway cross-section layout, and reviewing existing facilities and accessibility, the project introduces a large-scale green plaza into the bustling commercial Eastern District. In addition to the use of permeable pavements, multi-layered green spaces, and newly planted vegetation, the design incorporates scenic lighting elements to evoke the historic image of the Liugong Canal, creating a pedestrian plaza that is people-centric, resilient, and intellectually engaging, as well as a more accessible and pedestrian-friendly environment. Following its completion and opening, the project now offers a comfortable green recreational space that connects with the core green corridor of the Eastern District, serving local residents, shoppers, tourists, and other visitors. It showcases a vibrant and diverse streetscape, further enhancing the overall pedestrian experience and earning recognition from both local businesses and the community.

The “Nangang Elevated Connecting Platform and Associated Greening Facilities Turnkey Project” is designed under the Eastern District Gateway Project 2.0, which seeks to make Nangang, following Xinyi District, another administrative district in Taipei City with a three-dimensional pedestrian connection system. This project aims to be a key hub in the city's skywalk network by constructing an elevated connecting platform. It will enliven activities between the skybridge and ground level and more effectively guide the flow of people between the Taipei Music Center and the skywalk system. In addition, it helps shape Nangang District as the city’s green corridor, providing citizens with a more comfortable and pedestrian-friendly environment for leisure and mobility.

The Taipei Hydraulic Engineering Office (Taipei HEO) said the comic-style mural was created by up-and-coming designer   Kurosu. Rice from Shezi became the stars of a funny short story that brings a smile to the audience’s faces. Also featured in the drawings are the local environment and ecology, as well as human interactions with the land such as bird watching, cycling, planting, wetland tourism, flying kites, and watching the sunset. 

Designer Kurosu said that all these once commonplace childhood activities have now become a luxury in today’s fast-moving and high-pressure cities. Once, we had plenty of time to waste with no regrets. Nowadays, even trivial things can make us feel happy and relaxed - Why not just sit back, bask in the sunshine, and watch the world go by? A visit to Shezidao is like trip back down memory lane. There is no need to hurry.

These murals are not just for decoration. They are like a panorama that tells the story of the land, imbued with the feelings and shared memories of the residents. Visitors are invited to come and learn about Shezidao through these artworks. Why not swing by on the weekend and have some time to yourself?

In 2025, the HEO promoted resilient communities and disaster prevention drills in Zhongshan District’s Zhulun Village and Zhongzheng District’s Jianguo Village. Xinyi District’s Xingya Village is expected to be ready by the end of November as well. On July 18, 2025, the Zhulun Village disaster prevention drill was held in the open park in front of Zhulun Village Office. The exercise was supported by the Zhongshan District Office of Taipei City Government, the Songjiang Station of the 3rd Battalion of Taipei City Fire Department, and the Zhulun District Office of Zhongshan District.

On October 19, 2025, the Jianguo Village disaster prevention and response drill was held on the empty lot next to No. 17 Aiguo W. Rd. in Zhongzheng District. The drill was supported by the Zhongzheng District Office of Taipei City Government, the Chengzhong Station of 1st Battalion of Taipei City Fire Department, and the Jianguo Village Office of Zhongzheng District. Disaster prevention partnerships were also signed with local merchants once the disaster prevention drill was completed, or after each drill to recruit more local residents and disaster prevention partners.

The disaster prevention and response drill simulated the imminent arrival of a typhoon with heavy and super heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding in parts of Taipei. Local disaster response teams led by village chiefs were assigned tasks such as emergency readiness. At the same time, disaster prevention specialists also joined the emergency response. Scenarios such as regular disaster mitigation, pre-disaster preparation, in-disaster response, and post-disaster recovery were incorporated into the training. The activity started at the pre-disaster readiness stage. The community disaster response team was mobilized and residents were reminded by the village chief to implement preventive measures.

As the disaster scenario continued to unfold, the installation of waterproof baffles, the operation of floodgates, stacking of sandbags, pumping by water pumps, and access being blocked by fallen street trees were all simulated as part of the emergency response drill. The community disaster prevention team began by clearing away fallen street trees before proceeding to guide the evacuation of local residents and set up emergency shelters, demonstrating how they can work with other emergency response units to mount a swift response. In addition, the drill includes important procedures such as rendering first-aid or guidance during an earthquake. This gave participants a better understanding and more hands-on experience with all the different response measures.

The drills enabled the continuous improvement and review of the disaster prevention capabilities in the community. They also helped familiarize team members and residents with emergency response procedures. People also learned how to coordinate and work with emergency response units to deal with unexpected situations. This not only enhanced the disaster prevention awareness of residents but also ensured that communities can recover and rebuild rapidly after a disaster.

Taipei HEO stated that future efforts will continue to focus on the promotion of community-based flood prevention efforts so that residents can effectively preserve their own life and property during disasters. The flood prevention drills not only demonstrate Taipei City’s accomplishments in disaster prevention. They also strengthen the community disaster prevention mechanism to provide residents with a safer and more resilient living environment.

HEO noted that Bailing Pumping Station will be the city’s 89th water pumping station. The site covers approximately 1.6 Ha and will initially have a pumping capacity of 62 tonnes/second. Space has been reserved for upgrading to 100 tonnes/second to meet the needs of future urban development in Beitou District. The station building is located between Lixian Rd. and Shezhi Bridge near Wufengang River and Choumei Sports Park.

Being the first “Landscaped Flood Prevention Water Pumping Station” in Taiwan is what makes the station stand out. The design breaks with the boxy appearance of traditional pumping stations by incorporating the natural landform and local ecological environment of the Beitou agricultural district. In addition to balancing the needs of pumping performance, landscape aesthetics and ecological sustainability, close attention was paid to environmental friendliness in the overall design as well. Noise from pump operations was contained to reduce impact on the local environment while low-impact construction techniques were also applied around the site. The station construction and mechanical-electrical systems were designed for high performance and low energy consumption. Green Building and Smart Building concepts were incorporated in accordance with the relevant criteria.

Finally, HEO emphasized that the Bailing Pumping Station is not just a flood prevention project. It is resilient green infrastructure that is fully integrated with the city’s ecosystem. Strict quality control and safety will be enforced. Hopefully, the project will be completed on time to provide city residents with a new landmark in public works that combines the functions of flood prevention, ecological conservation, noise abatement, and landscaping value.

The HEO stated that the “Jingmei Creek and Zhinan Creek Confluence Revetment Reconstruction Project”, a grade 2 hydraulic engineering project, introduced eco-engineering techniques with wide, shallow and winding waterways instead of the three-sided concrete box culverts that were previously used. The reconstruction of a healthy river profile with various types of water bodies including ponds, cascades, shoals and streams based on river ecosystems helped to improve biodiversity while catering for ecological flood prevention and recreational water access.

The “Old Guizikeng Stream Lower Reach Environmental and Drainage Improvement Project”, a grade 3 hydraulic engineering project, practiced recycling, energy conservation and carbon reduction throughout the remediation process. The bike path built using in-situ soil connected Chenggong St. and Dadu Rd. The newly-cut sawdust trail used materials sourced from in-situ thinning. A low-maintenance water purification system was installed to maintain the water quality and ecological balance through effective treatment of wastewater. Landscaping incorporated the sampan, a local cultural motif. Rest and rice paddy viewing platforms were also added along both sides of the river to create a recreational waterside space with rural scenery.

The “Ji-6 Floodgate Towpath Improvement Project”, a grade 3 civil engineering project, is located in Guanshan Riverside Park and immediately became a popular selfie location upon completion! The bike towpath that crossed over the embankment was refurbished to improve safety and comfort. A new viewing platform was also added with sweeping views of the riverside and aircraft take-offs/landings. The platform also included art installations made out of glass brick to create a magical atmosphere. The clever design of the stairs added to the fun of the children’s slide as well. The surrounding green space incorporated the airport runway motif to create a diverse riverside space with transport, scenic, and recreational functions.

Finally, the “2024 Citywide Pumping Station Auxiliary Equipment Maintenance and Renewal Project (Contract 1)”, a grade 3 facilities project, upgraded the equipment at the Zhongshan, Jianguo, and Yucheng pumping stations. The Rain Classroom was applied to the integration of the mechanical-electrical systems to enhance the automation and remote monitoring functions of the pumping stations, improve their flood prevention response, and protect the life and property of city residents.

According to the HEO, the 4 projects all underwent an extensive internal review process before being entered in the awards in order to demonstrate their application of innovative engineering techniques, energy conservation and carbon reduction, and ecological sustainability. The HEO will continue to make improvements to the planning and construction of public projects. High standards and exacting requirements will be enforced to secure even more public recognition and accolades.

The signing of the contract also embodied the best practice in corporate ESG, community empowerment, and civic participation!

The Jingrui Flood Management Park has not only served as an important hydraulic facility in Neihu since it was commissioned but has also become a popular eco-destination since the completion of the “Jingrui Tianying Cabin.”

A very special partnership at the Jingrui Flood Management Park

 “Anti-collision Window Decals” applied to glass windows in partnership with the Wild Bird Federation of Taipei to keep birds safe.

Led by experts from the Bat Association of Taipei, volunteers in waders ventured into the box culverts to experience the world of the bats!

The City Government hopes collaborations like these will encourage more businesses to pitch in and help turn Taipei City into a greener and more habitable sustainable city. 

According to the HEO, the Xikou Wharf Viewing Platform will be extended by 3.5m. The upper viewing deck will also be extended by 3.5m to 7m to bring the public closer to the beauty of the waterside. The upper and lower decks at Xikou Wharf will be connected by new tiered seating that will improve people flow. A new 40m long pebbledash bench and other seating areas are also being added. The overall environment will be upgraded as well with new paving.

According to the HEO, the “Rainbow and Love Motif Selfie Wall”, a popular selfie attraction, has been updated. Couples are welcome to come leave a lock to symbolize their romantic bond. The “Rainbow LOVE Art Installation” has been moved closer to the water to make the beautiful Rainbow Bridge a more prominent part of the shot. You can change the angle of the shot to include the MacArthur Bridge as well to preserve different snaps of unforgettable riverside memories.

New mosaic tiled seating has been installed by the HEO so people can sit down and relax, chat with each other while enjoying the river breeze, and take in the riverside scenery. A romantic space with recreational functions is being constructed here to complement the water lantern event of the Cultural Festival, transforming the wharf into an urban stage rich in cultural heritage and romanticism.

Xikou Wharf is located in Songshan District and was once an important port in the Tamsui River Basin. The scattered facilities in the past failed to fully highlight the river port’s cultural significance or connect with the surrounding attractions. The reconstruction project will reshape the wharf establish connections to the metro station and night market. Circulation and recreational spaces will also be optimized with a water plaza, night-time lighting, and landscaping to construct a riverside node with both cultural depth and accessibility.

To improve the quality of the Chengmei Left Bank Riverside Park Xikou Wharf district and its facilities as well as create a leisure space that is in harmony with the local environment, the HEO launched the “Chengmei Left Bank Riverside Park Xikou Wharf District Improvement Works” to build a water accessible environment and themed square. These will allow city residents to enjoy the riverside views and boost overall utilization. The project has been completed and is now open to the public. Hopefully, it will become the “New Gateway to the Chengmei Left Bank” that boasts both historical significance and modern amenities.

This year's Chrysanthemum Festival is themed "The Eternal Bloom of Chrysanthemum Dreams," showcases 15 exhibition areas centered around dreams and aspirations through horticulture, floral design, and various horticultural techniques. Everyone is invited to explore the dreams within their hearts, as the beautiful flowers and a feast for the five senses lead you on the journey to realizing your dreams! The festival hours have been extended until 7 PM during the event. Come join us at Shilin to enjoy the flower viewing, savor night market delicacies, and visit quality shops for great deals.

For more event information, please visit Shilin Residence Guest  FB.

According to the New Construction Office, the project integrates the school’s existing campus axis with its natural surroundings. The building adopts a floor plan featuring a central corridor flanked by classrooms on both sides, with an open atrium at the core to bring in natural ventilation and daylight. The atrium incorporates a polyline wall design that breaks away from the rigid layout of traditional classrooms, creating a dynamic and engaging non-linear learning environment. This design encourages students to explore spatial imagination and creativity in three dimensions, thereby enhancing their learning motivation. The architectural form departs from conventional horizontal and vertical frameworks, transforming instead into a fluid and dynamic non-linear structure. This approach enriches the façade composition while enhancing the overall distinctiveness and visual appeal of both the exterior and interior spaces.

The New Construction Office explained that the campus landscape design emphasizes the integration and interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a culturally rich environment for both living and learning. The open landscape not only provides teachers and students with spaces for rest and social interaction but also serves as an area that combines relaxation and educational purposes. In line with the Taipei City Government’s “Garden City” policy, the rooftop features curved planting troughs that soften the building’s lines while offering agricultural spaces for teaching and hands-on practice. This allows students to learn about environmental sustainability and green living in an engaging way. The overall design seeks to create a modern educational environment that meets the needs of contemporary teaching, providing teachers and students with adequate space, abundant natural light and ventilation, and well-proportioned, functional layouts—infusing new possibilities and vitality into educational architecture.

The award-winning projects are: “Architectural Engineering Category: Taipei City Zhongshan District Jinzhou Street Site Public Housing Project,” “Taipei Municipal Daan Junior High School Comprehensive Teaching Building New Construction Project;” Civil Engineering Category: “Minquan Bridge Superstructure Reconstruction Turnkey Project,” “Dakeng Creek Crossing Bikeway New Construction Project,” “2024 Pavement and Ancillary Facilities Renewal Project (Package 2) – Songshan and Xinyi Districts,” “2023 Citywide Bridge and Culvert Beautification and Steel Structure Painting Maintenance Project, Open Contract (Package 2) – Neihu, Nangang, Songshan, and Xinyi Districts,” “Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project,” “Daan District Shida Road (from Section 3 of Roosevelt Road to Section 1 of Heping East Road)Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” etc.

The “Taipei City Zhongshan District Jinzhou Street Site Public Housing Project,” located between Lane 399 of Linsen North Road and Section 2 of Xinsheng North Road, features a streamlined pavement design that interconnects the entire site, creating a dynamic and fluid spatial impression. The project includes facilities such as a day-care institution for persons with disabilities, an activity center for the elderly, a community public childcare home, a home-based childcare service center, a non-profit kindergarten, a district community center, and an urban farm. These facilities provide quality spaces for activities and social interaction, fostering a new model of residential living. This innovative approach redefines the role of social housing in the urban context, enhancing its local identity and community connectivity.

The “Taipei Municipal Daan Junior High School Comprehensive Teaching Building New Construction Project” was developed with the vision of building a “modern junior high school that embodies diversity, forward-thinking, warmth, vitality, cloud, and humanistic values, while fostering a safe, comfortable, and refined teaching environment.” The building comprises six above-ground floors, housing 64 teaching spaces (including 45 general classrooms, 15 specialized classrooms, 4 special education classrooms, and a library), as well as 20 administrative offices. In addition, two underground levels accommodate a public parking facility with 223 car spaces and 52 scooter spaces, meeting the needs of both the school and the community. Since its completion and inauguration, the building has provided students with a high-quality campus environment that is safe, humanistic, diverse, memory-preserving, intelligent, energy-efficient, and sustainable. In alignment with the school curriculum, it inspires students to pursue their dreams, broaden their learning, and connect with the international community, earning recognition from teachers, students, and parents alike.

The “Minquan Bridge Superstructure Reconstruction Turnkey Project” adoptes a structural reconstruction approach to comprehensively resolve the long-standing traffic issues caused by settlement at the early design’s suspended hinge expansion joint across the river section. The project also includes the addition of a pedestrian scenic bridge to enhance service functions. During demolition, the project pioneers Taiwan’s first use of the truss girder work vehicle demolition method, ensuring maximum safety while eliminating high construction risks. This approach enables the dismantling process to be carried out swiftly and securely, facilitating the smooth completion of traffic restoration.

The “Dakeng Creek Crossing Bikeway New Construction Project” is located near the confluence of Dakeng Creek and the Keelung River, spanning from Nangang District, Taipei City, across Dakeng Creek to Xizhi District, New Taipei City. The project constructs an independent bridge approximately 4 meters wide and 55.6 meters long, connecting the riverside cycling networks of Taipei City and New Taipei City. Completed in March 2025, the project promotes green transportation and encourages the public to adopt eco-friendly modes of mobility. Beneath the Huandong Boulevard, landscaping was introduced to enhance urban greenery, along with the installation of seating areas for leisure and recreation. The project provides cyclists, walkers, and local residents with a welcoming environment embraced by lush vegetation and scenic views along the Keelung riverside.

The “2024 Pavement and Ancillary Facilities Renewal Project (Package 2)” continues to uphold Taipei City’s high standards for road construction, following the three-step process of “manhole cover adjustment,” “roadbed improvement,” and “comprehensive milling and paving.” The project also incorporates the city government’s new “people-oriented” transportation policy, together with low-carbon construction methods utilizing new materials and technologies. Through this initiative, three major thoroughfares—Minquan East Road, Dunhua North Road (express lanes), and Keelung Road—have been revitalized with a renewed appearance.

The “2023 Citywide Bridge and Culvert Beautification and Steel Structure Painting Maintenance Project, Open Contract (Package 2)” employes professional coating techniques to reinforce the outermost protective layer of Taipei’s major river-crossing bridges. The project also took the lead locally in addressing internal issues such as water accumulation and corrosion in special bridge structures—areas often difficult to detect. By adopting the most rigorous maintenance approach, the project effectively safeguardes and extendes the service life of the bridges, ensuring their continued role in protecting the safety of the public’s daily travel.

The “Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” builds upon the Eastern District Revitalization Plan. The core concept centers on creating a “people-oriented environment” and “connecting the green corridors of the Eastern District.” The project targets the southern and northern sides of Lane 135, Section 1 of Fuxing South Road, including the central parking lot area. Through connecting the southern road section, adjusting the roadway cross-section layout, and reviewing existing facilities and accessibility, the project introduces a large-scale green plaza into the bustling commercial Eastern District. In addition to the use of permeable pavements, multi-layered green spaces, and newly planted vegetation, the design incorporates scenic lighting elements to evoke the historic image of the Liugong Canal, creating a pedestrian plaza that is people-centric, resilient, and intellectually engaging. Since completion and opening, the project has provided local residents, shoppers, tourists, and commuters with a more vibrant public space. It has improved the overall pedestrian environment and been affirmed by both the local business community and residents.

The “Daan District Shida Road (from Section 3 of Roosevelt Road to Section 1 of Heping East Road) Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project” has been fully completed. Key improvements include widening pedestrian refuge islands, installing landscape railings and tactile paving for the visually impaired, shortening crossing distances, and creating safer, barrier-free waiting areas. By relocating and consolidating existing facilities, the project also enhances the effective pedestrian clearance. In addition, the aging and loosened pavement of the adjacent walkways within Shida Park was renewed, providing not only a safe pedestrian environment but also a high-quality leisure space for the public. The project has been well received by local residents, neighborhood leaders, as well as teachers and students of National Taiwan Normal University.

The design concept of the “Taipei Municipal Daan Junior High School Comprehensive Teaching Building New Construction Project” centers on embodying the school’s modernity, diversity, foresight, warmth, vitality, cloud, and humanistic values, while fostering a safe and comfortable learning environment and supporting refined teaching development. The building comprises six above-ground floors, housing 64 teaching spaces (including 45 general classrooms, 15 specialized classrooms, 4 special education classrooms, and a library), as well as 20 administrative offices. In addition, two underground levels accommodate a public parking facility with 223 car spaces and 52 scooter spaces, meeting the needs of both the school and the community.

Since its completion and inauguration, the building has provided students with a high-quality campus environment that is safe, humanistic, diverse, memory-preserving, intelligent, energy-efficient, and sustainable. In alignment with the school curriculum, it inspires students to pursue their dreams, broaden their learning, and connect with the international community, earning recognition from teachers, students, and parents alike.

Taipei’s sewerage network spans more than 2,722 kilometers and has been in operation for over 50 years. To ensure system reliability and extend the service life of its pipelines, SSO became the first in the nation to launch a 12-year, four-phase “Sewer Pipeline Inspection and Life Extension Program.” The initiative emphasizes routine inspections and long-term repair and rehabilitation planning, and dedicated funding for sustainable management. These efforts aligned closely with the judging criteria for the Excellence Awards, leading to the Gold Award recognition.

The Neihu Sewage Treatment Plant Sport and Recreation Park Environmental Revitalization Turnkey Project was designed with inclusivity and sustainability at its core. The project integrates environmental education facilities and promotes water recycling, while also featuring barrier-free access, aesthetic upgrades, and renewable energy applications. By delivering an age-friendly recreational environment that merges environmental stewardship with urban livability, the project embodied the award criteria of “innovation, aesthetics, smart green building, net-zero emissions, and healthy sustainability.”

Key Innovations of the Award-Winning System:

1. To extend the service life of Taipei’s sewer pipeline network, the Sewerage Systems Office (SSO) has launched a 12-year, four-phase inspection and rehabilitation plan. The award-winning Cloud-Based Smart Sewerage Management System places GIS mapping at its core, integrating multiple modules such as pipeline inspection and life extension, manhole inspection and maintenance, incident reporting and dispatch, and sewer cleaning management. This comprehensive system significantly improves operational efficiency and ensures that Taipei residents receive the highest quality sewerage services. By transitioning to digital management, the SSO has solved longstanding issues of preserving and retrieving paper or videotape records, while also applying big data analytics to enhance the value of information. This allows precise tracking of maintenance activities and markedly boosts both the efficiency and effectiveness of sewer system management.
2. A standout feature of the system is Taiwan’s first “Follow-Along Dynamic Pipeline Video” function. With this tool, users can click on any section of the sewer pipeline in the GIS platform and instantly view its inspection video. Different types of defects are color-coded for easy recognition, while repair records and outcomes are documented in a medical chart–style format. This innovation greatly enhances both work efficiency and accuracy, offering an unprecedented level of precision in sewer management. 
3. Through GIS integration and visualization modules, the system is able to clearly present vast datasets that were previously difficult to consolidate. Whether it’s tracking inspection progress, mapping anomaly distribution, assessing repair outcomes, or supporting scheduling strategies and risk forecasting, the system offers managers a clear and reliable basis for decision-making. Looking ahead, the SSO will continue to enhance digital governance, deepen integration of public infrastructure data, and expand smart management tools. By advancing these innovations, Taipei is committed to creating a safer, more efficient, and sustainable urban environment for its citizens.

According to the Taipei Hydraulic Engineering Office (Taipei HEO), the Shezi riverbank ramp serves as a key access point to the riverside park. For generations, locals have cultivated a deep connection with the Keelung River. Their way of life is steeped in wisdom drawn from living closely with nature, where the rhythm of the river flows through their everyday routines. This mural is designed to rekindle those memories—inviting the public to reconnect with the gentle moments they’ve shared with the river.

According to the River Engineering Section of the Taipei Hydraulic Engineering Office, this mural was designed by Creative Director Max. Inspired by The King Who Would Not Accept the Throne from Zhuangzi, the design centers around the passage: “At sunrise we begin our work; at sunset we rest, free and content beneath heaven and earth.” The artwork reflects the harmonious rhythm of life in Shezi, where humans and nature coexist. The mural uses layered geometric shapes to express the beauty of order in both nature and daily life. It begins with a vivid orange concentric circle symbolizing the sunrise, which gradually expands into a soft blue sky. Sunlight streams through the trees and flows along the river, painting a picture of ease, vitality, and balance along the riverside.

The background imagery centers on the natural harmony between earth and sky. A centuries-old banyan tree stands tall beside the tidal waters, together forming a richly diverse ecosystem. Life abounds in every corner of the mural; fish swim gracefully, mudskippers leap energetically, Formosan blue magpies flutter through the air, and elegant egrets stand still at the water’s edge. The mural brings Shezi’s vibrant ecology to life, inviting all who pass by to experience the dynamic spirit of the community.

The Taipei HEO continues to advance the Taipei Embankment Story initiative, turning riverside embankments into living canvases. By inviting artists with distinct creative voices, the project blends local landscapes with human stories, transforming the embankments into a collective storybook that connects the memories and emotions of Taipei’s residents. Located along Section 2 of Tonghe West Street (just north of Shezheng Road), this stretch of embankment reads like a hidden poem nestled in the city—waiting for passersby to pause and take it in.

The Taipei Hydraulic Engineering Office (Taipei HEO) stated that the forum was presided over by Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-Chuan. Through this annual gathering, the City hopes to inspire community disaster leaders and formally launch the flood and typhoon preparedness season. The lighting ceremony served as a symbolic declaration of commitment to safeguarding the city from water-related disasters. During the event, the Taipei HEO also presented the results of the 2024 evaluations of Taipei’s self-initiated flood prevention communities. These assessments aim to recognize and encourage continued progress in community-led disaster preparedness. Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-Chuan personally presented trophies to outstanding communities and introduced newly joined partners in the city’s disaster preparedness network.

Since 2019, Taipei City has successfully established 19 self-initiated flood prevention communities, with 3 more planned for launch this year. Many of these communities have received recognition from the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, underscoring the city’s growing strength in grassroots disaster resilience.

As extreme weather events become more frequent, the limitations of engineering solutions alone become increasingly apparent. Infrastructure can only go so far in preventing damage and casualties. Only through close collaboration between the public and private sectors in disaster preparedness can we effectively reduce losses and rise to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

The embankment mural project draws inspiration from My Home Disappeared, a locally published picture book by Taipei Municipal Zhong-zheng Senior High School that chronicles the history of the “soft bridge” area. Designed by rising illustrator and designer Humor star, the murals feature characters from the book—including a young girl named Xiaomi, a wise old Tree Grandpa, and a graceful egret—who guide viewers through scenes representing the past, present, and future.

In the “past” mural, viewers are immersed in imagery of early rural life: countryside fields, birdsong and blossoms, the historic Fuyu Temple, and traditional Sanheyuan courtyard houses. The characters from the book—Xiaomi, the egret, Tree Grandpa, and local residents—are woven into the landscape, evoking a powerful sense of local identity and nostalgia. The egret, depicted with a star in its beak, symbolizes the passing of hope from the past into the present.

In the “present” and “future” mural, the egret continues its hopeful flight. The scene unfolds with modern homes, the ever-familiar Fuyu Temple, a grown-up Xiaomi, the enduring Tree Grandpa, and a community working together to weave a starlit sky and open a “gateway of memories” that transcends time. Even as the scenery evolves, the memories and emotions of the residents endure. The mural concludes with an abstract artistic style, symbolizing the weaving of the future through imagination and the preservation of the past through memory—conveying the core themes of heritage, freedom, and hope.

Since the mid-Qing Dynasty, Shipai Bridge has served as a vital route for local farmers, continuing through the Japanese colonial era and into the early postwar years. It bears the footsteps and everyday memories of countless generations. A historical and cultural interpretation board beside the bridge continues to tell the story of this land and its people. The murals on both sides are not just visual highlights, but extensions of the bridge’s living memory. The public is warmly invited to stop by, take in the artwork, and reflect on the rich heritage and exciting future embodied by Shipai Bridge.

Both dragonflies and damselflies, commonly seen in Taiwan, belong to the insect order Odonata. There’s an easy trick to telling them apart. Dragonflies rest with their wings spread flat like airplane wings, have sturdy bodies, and eyes that sit close together—sometimes even touching. In contrast, damselflies are slenderer and more delicate. When at rest, their wings fold neatly along their back like hands in prayer. Their eyes are set farther apart, and their heads resemble tiny dumbbells. Interestingly, the life cycle of Odonata species is closely tied to aquatic environments. Their young, called naiads, are aquatic and thrive in watery habitats—where there’s water, you’ll often find dragonflies.

Jinrui Flood Management Park benefits from a prime location and has been further enhanced through habitat diversity projects by the Taipei HEO. As a result, the park now features a wide variety of aquatic zones. These range from clear mountain streams winding through valleys, to broad flood detention ponds filled with aquatic plants, and even hidden forest-edge runoffs and moist marshy areas. This rich array of habitats has successfully attracted a wide range of dragonfly species, each favoring a different type of water environment.

According to long-term ecological surveys commissioned by the Taipei HEO and observation records from the Neihu Community College Ecology Program, a remarkable 76 species of dragonflies have been identified at Jinrui Flood Management Park. This exciting figure represents nearly half of Taiwan’s 161 known dragonfly species and confirms the park as a major hotspot for Odonata diversity in Taipei. It also highlights the park’s exceptional ecological richness and value.

Summer is the best time to witness these aerial dancers in action. While most dragonflies enjoy warm weather, extreme heat may send them seeking shade. Based on accumulated observation experience, the golden window for dragonfly watching is from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., when it’s common to spot more than a dozen different species of dragonflies and damselflies. There are also species that prefer to emerge at dusk, such as fast-flying forest dragonflies like Aeshnidae, Tholymis tillarga (twister), and Zyxomma petiolatum Rambur (brown dusk hawk). These become active two to three hours before nightfall, offering a challenge for keen-eyed observers trying to track their swift, elegant movements. Recommended viewing spots include the shaded pond near the park entrance and the stone path along the flood detention basin—both ideal for a close-up encounter with these graceful fliers.

The Taipei HEO warmly invites all residents to visit Jinrui Flood Management Park this summer. Let the lush greenery and cool mountain springs bring a refreshing escape from the heat. Amid the chorus of birds and insects, enjoy a moment of wonder alongside dragonflies gliding at the water’s edge, and embark on a vibrant, life-filled journey into the heart of Taipei’s natural beauty.

According to the New Construction Office, the site of the “Fire Department Dahu Station New Construction Project” is located adjacent to Exit 2 of Dahu Park MRT Station in Neihu District, Taipei City. The future building will comprise one basement level and five above-ground floors. The first floor will house the duty room, standby quarters, and garage for emergency vehicles, while floors two through five will include office space for the fire brigade, dormitories, a fitness room, and training platforms—aimed at providing a better working environment for firefighters tasked with demanding duties. The architectural design adopts a composed gray color scheme, complemented by both dark and light green louvers. These elements are integrated with the fire department’s symbolic tri-colors—yellow, red, and white—representing the spirit of firefighting and emergency rescue services. Minimal development is planned for the surrounding area of the main building to preserve the existing arboreal landscape. Additional trees will be planted to reinforce hillside greening, contributing to a green building environment. Moreover, the site along Section 5 of Chenggong Road, adjacent to Dahu Park MRT Station, will include setbacks for pedestrian walkways and greenbelt spaces, in line with efforts to create a more community-friendly facility. These developments aim to enhance Taipei City’s emergency response system while fostering a user-friendly and accessible public service environment.

The New Construction Office explained that in August 2019, the Taipei City Government approved the “Urban Design Control Guidelines for the Taipei City Nangang District Pedestrian Elevated Connectivity System”. Centered around Nangang Station, this initiative aims to link three MRT stations through an approximately 3.56-kilometer elevated pedestrian system, establishing Nangang as another administrative district of the city, after the Xinyi Planning District, to feature such a pedestrian elevated connectivity network. The award-winning “Nangang Elevated Connectivity Platform Project and Its Associated Greening Facilities Turnkey Project” constitutes a key component of this initiative. Located at the southwest site of Section 8, Civic Boulevard and Lane 265, Section 7, Zhongxiao East Road, the project establishes a core elevated connectivity platform on the west side of Nangang Station. This platform facilitates the integration of the elevated pedestrian system with ground-level activities. The connectivity platform consists of two parts: a steel arch bridge and a large platform. The main bridge connects northward to the second-floor corridor of the World Pearl residential development and southward to a large park platform. A secondary bridge extends eastward from the side of the main bridge to the Nangang Station BOT building. The bridge structure measures approximately 95 meters in length, 7.5 meters in height, and 4.5 meters in width. The arch bridge’s curved form enhances the urban landscape’s visual layers and complements the architectural color scheme of Nangang District, harmonizing with the local characteristics. The large platform connects with the surrounding landscape, directing pedestrian flow toward the parks near the Taipei Music Center. Below the platform, a semi-outdoor space adjoins the corner plaza at Section 7, Zhongxiao East Road. Under normal conditions, this area serves as a sheltered playground, market space, or festival venue, and can be adapted to support large-scale events at the Taipei Music Center, thereby fostering a more prosperous commercial district.

The renovation of the Xinglong Park public restroom has transformed it from a purely functional space into a highlight of the park's overall landscape. The exterior design features gray-white tongue-and-groove panels paired with perforated aluminum panels, creating a clean, sleek, and modern aesthetic that harmonizes with the park's natural environment, resulting in a fresh and bright visual impression. A glass canopy has been installed at the entrance to the restroom, providing shade from the sun and protection from the rain while also adding a touch of modern elegance to the overall design. The decorative light boxes on the walls provide clear guidance during the day and serve as lighting at night, significantly enhancing safety within the park after dark and allowing visitors to use the facilities with peace of mind even after sunset.

In addition to the significant updates to the exterior, there have also been notable improvements in functionality. To accommodate the high foot traffic and frequent activities at Xinglong Park during weekends, the renovation project has increased the number of restroom stalls and urinals, effectively alleviating waiting times during peak usage periods. A new accessible restroom with a scenic view has also been added, providing a safe and comfortable space for people with disabilities, the elderly, or those with mobility issues. This design not only embodies the principle of accessibility but also demonstrates thoughtful planning in public space design.

To address past issues of chaotic entrance/exit pathways and inconvenient usage, the renovation optimized internal pathways and elevation differences, making entry/exit smoother and the space feel more spacious and safe. The original outdoor sink area was converted into a semi-outdoor space with a rain shelter above, allowing users to wash their hands comfortably regardless of weather conditions, significantly enhancing overall comfort.

The Park Authority stated that public restrooms are no longer merely “necessary facilities” but also an integral part of urban aesthetics. Their user-friendly design meets the diverse needs of various groups. Whether it's local residents taking a stroll, parents accompanying their children to play, or tourists participating in activities, everyone can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind offered by this new-style public restroom.

According to Chief Engineer Wu Zai-Qin of the New Construction Office, in line with the city government’s efforts to enhance overall traffic conditions in the Neihu Technology Park area, a new on-ramp has been constructed within the Neihu Sports Park to address congestion at the Tiding Boulevard connection to the northbound National Freeway No. 1. This newly added on-ramp merges directly onto Jiuzong Road, leading to the freeway entrance, significantly reducing travel distance and wait times. By enabling earlier traffic diversion from Tiding Boulevard, the new on-ramp allows vehicles to reach the freeway more efficiently. By reducing traffic on Tiding Boulevard, it is hoped that traffic will be dispersed to surrounding major roads to help ease existing congestion.

Wu Zai-Qin added that in order to improve traffic conditions in the Neihu Technology Park area as early as possible, the construction team was fully mobilized to complete the project within approximately six months. The original slope was transformed into a nearly 250-meter-long road, completed on June 12, 2025. The project adopted methods that have low impacts on the ecology, including the establishment of stone revetment and the planting of shrubs as retaining structures, helping to preserve water resources while enhancing the roadside landscape. This approach balances driving safety with aesthetic appeal, creating a “breathing” green road. In terms of traffic facilities, safety direction signs and flexible delineator posts were installed at turns to assist drivers in adjusting to changes in road width. Additionally, deceleration markings were added at the exit connecting to Section 2, Jiuzong Road, to guide drivers to slow down, ensuring a safer passage for all road users. It is hoped that starting today, this brand-new road will serve as a catalyst for better traffic in the Neihu Technology Park area and provide road users with a more comfortable commuting experience!

The New Construction Office noted that establishing a comprehensive database of roads and sidewalks serves as the foundation for effective management. However, traditional manual survey methods result in two-dimensional maps that are time-consuming to produce, inconsistent in quality, less accurate, and limited to single-use outcomes. To address the challenges posed by these conventional methods, the office pursued innovative solutions by exploring the use of smart panoramic inspection vehicles for data collection. In addition, geospatial information is integrated with real-world street view imagery to create a visualized management platform. A pilot project was first carried out in Taipei’s Xinyi District in 2019 through a scientific research initiative, and formal application citywide began in 2023—the first of its kind in the country

The New Construction Office also noted that the visualized management platform not only reduces manpower and time costs but also enables smart management by providing real-time monitoring of various deficiencies and improvements related to roads and sidewalks. The platform’s “Accessible Pathway Map” is also underway, which will also be made available for public viewing in the future. In addition, the platform introduces evaluation indicators for sidewalks (including accessibility, safety, and comfort). The evaluation scores are displayed using color-coded zones on the platform to assist government agencies in decision-making and to serve as a basis for prioritizing improvement efforts.

The New Construction Office concluded by emphasizing that roads and sidewalks are vital components of public infrastructure, and their long-term, effective management and maintenance remain a key objective. Moving forward, the office plans to promote inter-departmental collaboration and resource sharing to further enrich and diversify the platform’s data. It will also guide road inspection contractors in integrating imaging equipment to capture street view imagery during routine inspections, ensuring continuous updates to the platform’s map data and supporting the goal of data sustainability. Upholding the principles of innovation, technological advancement, and sustainability, the New Construction Office is committed to creating a more comfortable, safe, and friendly road environment in Taipei.