bakedbean

Columbine mentioned this in the other thread (thanks Columbine), but thought it might be nice to have a separate topic so we can follow the progress of this one.

From today's Star Online:
Penang is set to get its maiden LRT project – a 17.5km elevated stretch linking Komtar with the Penang International Airport.

With construction slated to begin next year, the RM4.5bil project is part of a package of solutions for an island that has long been choking on its traffic.The LRT project – expected to be awarded in June – will mark the realisation of the long-awaited implementation of the RM27bil Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), which also includes a 25km expressway linking Bayan Lepas and Tanjung Bungah.

According to reliable sources, Gamuda Bhd, IJM Corp Bhd, and a Chinese company have been shortlisted to undertake the projects, the bulk of which would be funded through land reclamation rights in the state.

The LRT and new expressway will be built using the Project Delivery Partner (PDP) concept, where the PDP will step in to resolve problems should parts of the construction fail to meet construction criteria.

In Penang’s case, should either one of the Malaysian companies get the award, it would have to partner with the Chinese company, especially in the construction of the LRT project.

It would be likewise should the Chinese company win the contract.
unquote
You can read more here:
First LRT project in Penang next year - Nation | The Star Online

bakedbean

This sounds like great news to me.

bakedbean

I found this intriguing picture on skyscrapercity site. It was from a few years back. No idea if this is still the plan but......

InVinoVeritas

Would be wonderful if it were true!

ex reg

Once people have cars they are loath to travel on any other type of transport.
No matter how good the alternative transport is.

Shouldn't it really extend to Batu Ferringhi via bb's condo?

columbine

I was wondering about putting in a new thread but hesitated.Thanks bb ;-)

bakedbean

Well, I don't agree. When we moved to Singapore, we never had a car. I never missed having one. OK, maybe during a heavy monsoon, but that was all. Could get about easily... MRT, taxis or just plain walking.

Walking.... I could really get on my soapbox about. Walking is great in Singapore...lovely wide pavements and hey, cars even stop at the lights to let you cross. If only in Penang

If LRT came about in Penang and it was close to where I live, I would use it and leave the car parked up at the condo (depending on the journey of course).

InVinoVeritas

Lovely wide pavement = free car park or street vendor pitch in Penang

bakedbean

Oooweee take a look at this pic below. On ChatPropertyMalaysia site recently. The whole masterplan including LRT, trams, catamarans.... goodness

Massive infrastructure changes and maybe starting in 2 years time. As one of my friends pointed out, it will probably take 20 years to complete, so I may be viewing all this from above somewhere, or in the old peoples home possibly

Link to the site here:
Penang Integrated Transport Masterplan and Penang LRT Route Map - LRT, BRT, KTM | Property Malaysia

InVinoVeritas

Hope they include wheelchair access - I will need it by then!

bakedbean

Do they ever? Must be an absolute nightmare for those who are disabled.

columbine

I just hope Pg takes note of the disjointed public transportation system in KL. One gets off the bus or skytrain and manoeuvre through some uneven exposed side walks to get to another public transport stop or painfully hike up and descend some concrete or steel steps to cross an overhead bridge to the other side of the dual carriageway to another bus stop
Some kind souls might offer some assistance to those in wheelchairs

bakedbean

First phase of construction predicted to start in 2017, not that far away.
Design and alignment to be finalized next year 2016.

So...good news for Penang Island in the long run. It's certainly what the island needs. Can imagine that there will be a lot of upheaval as the construction begins though.

You can read more here on Apartment Penang site:
Penang LRT project to start in 2017 - Apartment-Penang.com