Zhongshan Road Urban Renewal Begins; Shopping Area to Be Transformed

[Staff Report / Reporter Chou Shih-chang, North District]

Land consolidation for the North District Zhongshan Road urban renewal project was completed yesterday, with construction expected to begin next year. Since the briefing in March, 97 percent of the shops in the area have been bought out within half a year, unusually fast progress in recent years.

Under the plan, two 18-story residential towers will be built, with chain stores and parking entrances on the ground floor, and completion expected in ROC year 91. The implementer said the project will greatly improve the area's environment and traffic.

Most shops that used to operate on Zhongshan Road have closed or moved in recent months. One long-established shop owner who signed said, "Twenty-some years in business. It is hard to let go, but everybody signed."

As for the few shops that have not signed, the implementer said it will keep talking with them and did not rule out proceeding under the relevant regulations.

Borough chief Chang Chin-shui said hygiene and safety problems have plagued the area in recent years, and most residents support the project. Of the few shops that have not signed, he said, "I believe everyone will come around in the end."