Accounting for Mobility Needs of Seniors and Persons with Reduced Mobility in Accessibility Planning Metrics

Mr Jackson Lam asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether LTA's accessibility planning metrics sufficiently account for the mobility needs of seniors and persons with reduced mobility; (b) whether user-centred accessibility indicators are being developed alongside distance-based measures; and (c) how these indicators will inform future transport planning.

Our transport system is designed to be inclusive, catering to the needs of seniors and persons with reduced mobility. Over the years, the design parameters have been enhanced, in tandem with prevailing guidelines. Retrofitting of older infrastructure has been on-going to meet latest requirements, barring site and budgetary constraints.

Today, all MRT and LRT stations, and almost all bus stops are barrier free. Lifts have been added at pedestrian overhead bridges near public transport nodes and healthcare institutions, and near areas with more senior residents. At Friendly Streets, features such as longer pedestrian crossing time and raised zebra crossings make walking journeys safer, more convenient and comfortable for all.

LTA regularly engages with different groups, including seniors and persons with reduced mobility, to better understand their commuting needs and experiences, and improve our transport provisions.