[ { "DataSN": "3248499", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=B14279897B9FB804", "title": "The MRT - More Than Just Transportation", "Content": "Introduction In addition to being a means of getting around, an MRT can play many other roles in the life of a city. It can, for instance, provide a platform for street performances, be a venue for fairs and exhibitions, a site for advertising, and even be the location of a group wedding ceremony. MRT space, then, includes more than just stations and trains. It is also underground malls, outdoor squares, and pedestrian malls above underground stations and tunnels, as well as linear parks under elevated stations and tracks. Therefore, the MRT provides a variety of areas for all kinds of uses.  Background Since 1996, routes of Mass Rapid Transit Systems on the Taipei Metropolitan Area have continually been completed and opened for traffic to provide convenient and comfortable transportation services. It has effectively improved transportation in the metropolitan area and injected new impetus into urban development. As a result, both Asiaweek in the year 2000 and Newsweek in the year 2001 ranked Taipei as one of the most livable cities in Asia. The Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems (DORTS) is in charge of building metro systems at the Taipei Metropolitan Area. In 2001, DORTS and five affiliated district project offices passed the ISO9001: Year 2000 International Standard Certification for quality management systems, and on January 29, 2002, attained accreditation from the UKAS certification system. This shows that the quality control on all public works for the Taipei MRT at Taipei Metropolitan Area is complete and up to the level of international standards. Because Taipei MRT is convenient, comfortable, on schedule, significantly reduces commuting time, and shortens distances between spots in the city, it has expanded the living domains of urban residents, transformed the lifestyles of Taipei residents, and significantly improved the living quality of people. Public Art On the Taipei MRT, in addition to speed and safety, comfort and aesthetics are also emphasized, and these human concerns have the effect of turning MRT space into a cultural phenomenon. At many stations, public art has been installed to enhance the quality of MRT space. Many forms are used to expand the local context of the stations and encourage a feeling of intimacy with MRT structures among the public. For example, Taipei City Hall Station on the Nangang line, plays host to a sculpture with the title "Growth." This sculpture aims to symbolize the growth of the city under the direction of Taipei City government. In another example, a mural named "Dawning Sail" at Shuanglian Station on the Tamsui line describes the history of the Shuanglian area, while on the same line, the mosaic collages- "Children's Mosaic Trail" and "The Colorful World of Children," along the outdoor pedestrian mall were produced with the cooperation of students from nearby elementary schools. Public art sometimes provides more than a visual impact. Some of the artworks actually function as station furniture, such as the "Small Park," one of the "Suite of Hands" series at NTU Hospital Station on the Tamsui line; "Push" in the "Growth" series at Taipei City Hall Station on the Nangang line; and "Heaven, Earth and Man" at Xindian Station on the Xindian line. Some interactive artworks are triggered sound effect by viewers' involvement and increase the hearing variety, such as "Around" at the Kunyang Station on the Nangang line and "Historical City--Stone Pillars' at the Zhongxiao W. Rd. Metro Mall on the Nangang line. "Peep" at Gongguan Station on the Xindian line makes special use of public participation to enrich the change of artworks.   Architectural Design The form of MRT stations is integrated with their surroundings as circumstances permit. For the Tamsui line, due to expectations that it would become an international window for Taipei, the architecture was designed with Chinese-style image. For the Wenhu line, in order to reduce volume, modern architectural form was used with steel materials and glass in order to convey feelings of technology. On the Zhonghe line, all stations are underground and were designed most economically in accordance with the principle of not allowing ground facilities to impact the urban landscape. Concise design method were employed on the Nangang line in order to reduce the space volume that would impact urban landscape, furthermore, to create new urban landmarks through the selection of public art. The design concept for the Xindian line utilizes simplified pavilion elements that match the environment outside the stations. For the building materials, durability was an early consideration with beauty as the principle. Later economic factors were also taken into consideration. However, some MRT architecture due to their obvious and unique forms also serve as city landmarks. For example, Jiantan Station on the Tamsui line embodies the attractive qualities of structure with its striking cable system. In addition to being voted one of the city's most impressive landmarks by Taipei citizens, Jiantan Station also won an award from Architect magazine in 1997. The vent shafts at Zhongxiao Dunhua Station and the multi-function pedestrian mall on the Nangang line were transformed into the public artwork "Tree River." This piece, which provides an eye-catching view of nature in downtown Taipei, came about as the result of a locally performed survey, in which people expressed their preference for an ecological theme. On the long- term network, furthermore, stations are being designed as works of art in themselves. The particular artistic theme of each station is incorporated in its architectural design. For example, the theme for Sanhe Junior High School Station on the Luzhou line is "Sand." Thus, the station's color will be light brown; the floor will be paved in a sand bar pattern; and the walls will be decorated with graphics of "Egrets Standing on Sand." The goal is to make the environment appear artistic and, at the same time, make art a natural part of the environment.   Historic Preservation Additionally, history is not being ignored in the process of MRT development. When the Nangang line was under construction, great care was taken to preserve the nearby North Gate of old Taipei. During excavation, stone and wooden pillars that previously formed parts of the foundations of the old Taipei City Wall were discovered. They were carefully dug up and restored, and parts of them are now displayed at the location where they were found in the Zhongxiao West Road Underground Mall. Furthermore, some of the stone pillars are reincarnated as elements of art.   Thoughtful Facilities Taipei MRT provides the most comfortable and comprehensive environment as possible to serve all kinds of passengers, including tactile and broadcast system for the visually-impaired,information display system and flash signals for the hearing-impaired, ramps and elevators designed for wheelchairs, baby strollers, and the elderly, and diaper changing tables and restroom for parent with toddler for children. Other obstacle-free facilities in rest rooms such as and buzzers and alarms for emergency situations all are thoughtful service. There is also a clear signage system to guide passengers to smoothly ride cars and enter/exit stations. Every effort has been made to offer a full range of services.  Landscape Planning The environment along Taipei MRT routes and around the stations provides precious open space for the inhabitants in this crowded city. They walk, exercise, cycle and take advantage of the opportunity for both physical relaxation and mental release. Many open spaces, such as the riverside park outside Tamsui Station on the Tamsui line, are popular tourist destinations during weekends and holidays. These open spaces are for multi- function use. In addition to combining Chinese architectural characteristics and garden design, the Tamsui line has already become special landscape and places for public activities. Furthermore, the linear parks built along the MRT lines make Taipei bright and dazzling. Consequently, the MRT landscape planning obtained the Ministry of the Interior's 2nd Annual National Excellent Landscape Selection Award.   Cultural Events At some stations, licensed street performers create an artistic atmosphere. MRT trains decorated for promotional purposes also function as a kind of mobile art form. Pathways are used for temporary exhibitions, festivals, concerts are held to encourage use of the MRT system, and it is even possible to watch specially-made TV dramas, for example, "MRT Love Story" on some trains. In short, the MRT enriches the quality of urban life. An MRT system can have a positive effect on civic pride and people's behavior. When, for example, food and drink are prohibited, the result is a cleaner traveling environment in which people are less likely to litter. Moreover, arrows on platform floors and signs on escalators induce passengers to line up properly and leave pathways clear for others. In this way, people are encouraged to be aware of the convenience of their fellow passengers. Mobile phones must be turned off in certain cars of the train, and there are strict regulations governing the transport of pets. Regular patrols by MRT police are complemented by peer pressure in encouraging the public to obey these regulations and, in some cases, behave differently from when they are outside. In this respect, the MRT has created its own unique culture.  Public Participation Public participation is carried out in multifaceted ways. For example, a variety of different public briefing sessions are held regularly along with public hearings for the exchange of opinions with the public. Free email access also allows residents to provide timely feedback, and the hosting of station naming activities has increased the publics' feelings of participation. There are also a wide variety of publicity materials, a navigation system, and web pages to obtain public approval while reducing misgivings. In addition, every effort is being made to minimize the impact of construction on local lifestyles and to publicize construction results. Even for the promotion of public art, attempts are made to invite local people to vote on themes for children's collages, public exhibitions, and public selections. Pictures of the future completed construction projects are also posted on construction fences. Through this variety of different means of public participation, the public nature of the art works is increased and the gap is closed between the public and the art works. A portion of interactive public art even incorporates residents' behaviors into part of the art works, making the appearance of the art works change over time through interactions with different people.   Vision In addition to the construction projects themselves, Taipei MRT also puts full efforts on public art, architectural design, historical preservation, landscape planning, facilities for the disabled, cultural events and opportunity of interacting with people to enhance the charm of Taipei Metropolitan Area whether at the fields of natural ecology, man-made environment or cultural life. In conclusion, leisure time nowadays is being emphasized more and more in urban life, and an MRT can play its part in meeting people's needs for more than just transportation. Because it is a vital means for commuters and a key to the city for tourists, aesthetics and comfort should be considered along with the requirements of transportation. Facilities related to human concerns should be incorporated in all future MRT design.  Example Introduction   Photo Caption (1): Public art in the MRT is a pioneer and model for public art in Taiwan.   Photo Caption (2): The MRT architectural works frequently become city landmarks. For example: Jiantan Station on the Tamsui line, and "Tree- River" located on two ventilation shafts in a multi-purpose pedestrian mall and Zhongxiao Dunhua Station on the Nangang line.   Photo Caption (3): The MRT landscape planning provides residents with open spaces and green belts that are rarely found in urban areas, including pedestrian areas, linear parks, bicycle paths, and station squares. Consequently,the MRT landscape planning obtained the Ministry of the Interior's 2nd Annual National Excellent Landscape Selection Award.   Photo Caption (4): During the process of establishing the MRT, a great deal of importance was placed on historical preservation. For example: During the construction of the underground tunnel for the Nangang line, the safety of the City Gate was carefully protected. When the rocks and wooden pillars were discovered underneath the Taipei City Wall, they were carefully excavated and stored, and some of the stones were even returned to the location of their discovery to become meaningful historic learning materials.   Photo Caption (5): The Taipei MRT offers as full a range of services as possible in order to meet the needs of all kinds of passengers. (photo credited to TRTC)   Photo Caption (6): In terms of cultural events, MRT street performers shape an artistic atmosphere while painted MRT cars, which are used as advocacy tools, have also become moving artworks in the city. MRT facilities are often used for a variety of events, such as temporary exhibitions, festivals, parties, and concerts. These events have created a rich urban lifestyle for Taipei residents with multi- choices for cultural leisure events.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "3248500", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=8F2143FB3A418733", "title": "Architectural Design of MRT Stations", "Content": "The Special Characteristics of MRT Station Design The architectural theory \"Form follows function\" explains the design of the MRT stations. The station forms are developed according to basic functionality. For example, the possibility of large numbers of passengers entering and exiting the stations in a sudden flow should be considered; passenger circulation should be planned simply and clearly; and space should be planned in modules systemwide. Furthermore, in addition to operational demands such as scheduling, the length and width of cars, and the variety of station types according to site conditions, architectural design should also consider the following factors: Passenger circulation Arrangement of ticketing facilities Location of elevators and escalators Rooms for staff and equipment Air conditioning and ventilation Facilities for the disabled Platform screen doors (to be installed initially on the Xinzhuang line of the long-term network) Therefore, \"form follows the function\" is the first priority of station design. In this way, the design concept of transportation architecture differs from the design considerations of other public buildings. Architectural styles vary on each line. On the first two MRT lines having started commercial services, namely, the Wenhu line (Wenshan section) and part of the Tamsui line, the stations are elevated. Each line was given a specific theme, leading to unique identities in architectural design. The \"high-tech\" style of the Wenhu line (Wenshan section) and the variations on traditional Chinese architecture on the Tamsui line have made their stations landmarks in their respective environments.The station designs on the initial routes, such as the Zhonghe, Banqiao, Nangang, and Tucheng lines, emphasize the integration of the environment and aboveground objects such as entrances/exits and vent shafts. As for the interior, it is oriented towards simplicity while functionality is prioritized.The stations on each of the subsequent lines, such as Xinlu, Songshan, and Xinyi lines were made to fit local environmental themes and cultural backgrounds as well as public art concepts in the development of station designs, and the protruding structures were required to have reduced volumes, be lightweight, and allow for permeability of lighting. The station interior finishing employed techniques such as variations in lines and materials, pattern collages, color conversions, and lighting to create visual foci which integrated with public artworks and created artistic atmospheres in station interiors with space variations and humanities.The architectural form and interior finishing in stations mainly prioritized confirming the routes' design theme images or local development orientations and then considered overall planning concepts and interpretations of architectural modeling and style. However, because all of the site locations and conditions had their own unique characteristics, the styles and concepts of the different lines were not the same, and different representative meanings and styles were created. A brief description of the thematic and stylistic choices on different lines is provided below (for more photos, please refer to href=\"http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/Data/5825955371.pdf\" target=\"_gipNW\">Taipei MRT (Chinese/English)):Wenhu Line (Wenshan Section) Glass and steel create a high-tech appearance. The Wenhu line (Wenshan section) is the first medium-capacity transit (MCT) line in the Taipei area. Since all of the stations are elevated and most of them are located above streets, station design was strictly limited by clearances and related buildings codes. The minimal use of decorations, along with the use of glass and steel, creates the look and feel of modern-style architecture, and the stations' structure does not conflict with nearby buildings. (photo: Zhongshan Junior High School Station at the Wenshan Section on the Wenhu Line)src=\"http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/ENGDORTS/HumanConcerns/Arch_001.jpg\"/>Tamsui Line Spanning 22.8 km from the suburban Tamsui Station to Taipei Main Station, the Tamsui line is noted for its unique architectural characteristics. In the downtown area, tunnels were built under the route of the old Tamsui railway line. At ground level, station entrances are scattered and merged into various landscaped areas and pedestrian malls, providing local residents as well as transit passengers with a pleasant space to spend time in, to stroll around, and, of course, to travel in.In the suburban part of the Tamsui line, station designs have many special features, not only reflecting the heritage of local architecture, but in some ways imitating the architectural elements adopted by our ancestors.At-grade stations were built in the southern Fujian Province style, and the elongated northern imperial temples served as \"blueprints\" for elevated stations.A special example is Jiantan Station, where the entire station structure was erected on two huge concrete columns and suspended, forming an overall image of a \"dragon boat,\" an important feature of Chinese culture. Jiantan Station won the special Award, held by Architect Magazine, for urban landmarks in 1997.The design basis of the keystone arches and brick walls of Tamsui Station, located in the heart of Tamsui District, stemmeded from the local colonial-era building known as \"Fort San Domingo.\" (photo: Jiantan Station on the Tamsui Line)◎target=\"_nwMof\">Construction on the Tamsui Line (The North District Project Office)(Chinese) Zhonghe Line The whole line is built underground and mainly passes through older districts with narrow roads. The design of this line does not try to create a new architectural style. Instead, its aim is an economical way of generating the renewal of its surroundings. In the construction of this line, joint developments with surrounding buildings were actively promoted. As for aboveground facilities, the principle is to avoid heavy impacts on the urban landscape. With no special landscaping or distinguishing outside features, the interior became the key point in station design. (photo: Nanshijiao Station on the Zhonghe Line)Xindian LineAll the stations are built underground. The line connects NTU Hospital Station downtown with Xindian Station in a suburban scenic area. Station design was not regulated by a monotonous style but rather stressed coherence with the surroundings, and specific characteristics for each station were emphasized. For example, the design elements of wall finishing, grille windows and the glaze-tiled roof of Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station are clearly visible both inside and outside Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. The entrance to Jingmei Station is a simplified arcade while Gongguan Station uses roofs and octagonal windows which often appear in Chinese gardens. Guting Station, with its metal arches and glass, has light and transparent entrances that integrate with the modern steel and glass buildings nearby. The unique feature of this line is not the stations themselves but their integration with the architectural environment. (photo: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station on the Xindian Line)src=\"http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/ENGDORTS/HumanConcerns/Arch_004.jpg\"/>Banqiao Line & Tucheng LineThe design of underground stations mainly focuses on the integration of the environment and aboveground objects such as entrances and vent shafts. As for the interior, it is oriented towards simplicity while functionality is prioritized. (photo: Yongning Station on the Tucheng Line)◎target=\"_gipNW\">Construction on the Tucheng Line (The North District Project Office) (Chinese)Nangang LineThis underground line connects the busy Ximen (\"west-gate\") area with the eastern commercial district. Therefore, the main design goals on this line are not to establish one architectural style but to integrate into the environmental context, to redefine the existing commercial spaces and activities by means of new transportation facilities, and to create a new commercial area along the underground malls connecting the MRT stations. The underground malls link areas that are separated by roads at ground level. Because land is expensive and sites for equipment are hard to acquire, vent shafts and ground-level entrances are reduced in size and designed in a simple style in order to avoid a heavy impacts on the urban landscape. Some vent shafts are even designed as public art to create new landmarks in urban spaces. (photo: Houshanpi Station on the Nangang Line)Nangang Eastern Extension (1) Nangang Station(2) Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center StationWenhu Line (Neihu Section)The Wenhu line (Neihu section) is an extension of the Wenhu line (Wenshan section), which is a medium-capacity transit system. In addition to Dazhi Station and Songshan Airport Station, which are built underground, there are 10 elevated stations on the line. According to the environmental characteristics and human context of areas crossed by the MRT line, the architectural design languages can be divided into three categories, which are \"Residential and Suburban Scenes,\" \"Commercial and Recreational Environment,\" and \"Industrial and Technological Landscape.\" With elevated stations as a main feature, these categories together form a theme entitled \"River in the Sky.\" The design theme of the whole line is called \"The Story of Lake City.\" (Neihu in Chinese means \"inner lake.\")As for the station forms, public art is the starting point of the design theme and embodies the subtitle and color scheme for each station. Considering ease of maintenance and management as well as presenting an image of speedy MRT transportation, the station forms are designed neatly and geometrically, with a master form for all stations and their entrances on the Wenhu line (Neihu section). To fulfill the desire for a simplified form, most of the stations are designed as simple and light steel structures. Exterior walls are color-coated metal with enamel panels, and large glass windows are used to create lighting effects and transparency. The stations use a consistent architectural language and similar elements but vary according to the environmental conditions. (photo: Dahu Park Station on the Wenhu Line)◎Construction on the Wenhu Line (The East District Project Office) (Chinese)Luzhou LineThe scope and local characteristics of the Luzhou line are easily defined. The name \"Luzhou\" in Chinese means the \"land of egrets\" or the \"land of reeds,\" both of which were formerly a feature of the scenery of the area. Therefore, the common design theme of the five underground stations is the egret. These birds are depicted in various ways, such as gliding with the winds, playing in the water and flying over treetops, and have been adopted to form a series of subtitles related to egrets, such as \"Wind,\" \"Water,\" \"Reeds,\" \"Sand,\" and \"Fields.\" These sub-themes are presented in concrete or abstract form in the entrances and interior finishing to create the architectural character of this line. (photo: St. Ignatius High School Station on the Luzhou Line)◎Station Description on the Luzhou Line (Chinese)◎Design Concept of Stations on the Luzhou Line (PDF) (Chinese)src=\"http://www-ws.gov.taipei/001/Upload/public/MMO/ENGDORTS/HumanConcerns/Arch_008.jpg\"/>Xinzhuang LineStarting with the Xinzhuang line and Luzhou line, the design of above-ground forms and interior finishings in stations will present new concepts. For example, in the contract of the detailed design consultants (DDC), DORTS has stipulated that the consulting team must include a public art curator, who will participate in the architectural design process and provide background analysis and investigation according to the environment and human context of the station. The aim is to establish a design theme that is integrated into the development of the overall design. In order to reduce the effect on the urban landscape and the visual impact on adjacent buildings, the form and volume of above-ground facilities will be reduced, and light and transparent materials will be utilized.Furthermore, to create a bright, vivid and modern effect and decrease the claustrophobic pressure caused by the reduction of space within stations, special consideration is given to the interior finishing and the integration of the design theme with the overall architectural style. In passenger circulation intersection areas and waiting zones, the floor and ceiling patterns are specific on their line variations with graphics collages and color transitions which are designed to establish a visual focus. Public art installations will also add variety to the interior spaces and create an artistic atmosphere.The Xinzhuang line is divided into two parts located in Taipei City and Taipei County respectively. The line passes through Taipei City, Sanchong City and Xinzhuang City, and has different characteristics and development backgrounds for each area. The architectural forms of the stations are designed under the guidelines provided in the previous paragraph, with an aim to integrate the local context into station design. (photo: Sanchong Station on the Xinzhuang Line) ◎Station Introduction at the Section of Taipei City on the Xinzhuang Line (Chinese)◎Station Introduction at the Section of New Taipei City on the Xinzhuang Line (Chinese) ◎Station Architecture and Public Art (2013 DORTS Annunal Report)Xinyi LineThe street construction on the Xinyi line had \"Dialog\" as its theme, and the architecture and landscape design, planning of interior space, public art, and street furniture design, combined with lighting and color schemes created an MRT system with stations rich in artistic sensibility and local characteristics in order to integrate MRT architecture and landscape with the surrounding urban environment. (photo: Daan Park Station on the Xinyi Line)◎Station Architecture and Public Art (2013 DORTS Annunal Report)◎target=\"_nwMof\">Construction on the Xinyi Line(The South District Project Office) (Chinese)◎Introduction to the Xinyi MRT Line (Chinese/English)Songshan LineDuring the planning of the Songshan line, each station's design theme was incorporated into the architecture finishing with variations in lighting, colors, and shades to present the different style of each station and provide a comfortable environment. At the same time, public art was selected which was suitable for each station. (photo: Songshan Station on the Songshan Line)◎Station Architecture and Public Art of Songshan Line (2014 DORTS Annunal Report)(Chinese)◎Construction on the Songshan Line (The Central District Project Office) (Chinese)◎Introduction to the Songshan Line (Chinese/English)Tucheng Extension to DingpuThe Tucheng extension runs underground from the terminus at Yongning Station along Zhongyang Road sections 3 and 4, and ends at the high-tech industrial park in Dingpu. The extension has a total length of 2 km with one underground station, and commercial service began on July 6, 2015. (photo: Dingpu Station on the Tucheng Extension)◎Station Architecture and Public Art of Tucheng Extension to Dingpu (2015 DORTS Annunal Report)(Chinese)◎target=\"_nwMof\">Construction on the Tucheng Extension to Dingpu (The North District Project Office)(Chinese)", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "3248501", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=855E686A3D7C01C5", "title": "Facilities for the Disabled", "Content": "Creating an Obstacle-Free Environment with Universal Design ConceptsIntroductionTaipei MRT system is the first public transportation system in Taiwan to introduce the concept of \"Obstacle-Free Facilities.\" Through planning and designing hardware facilities and software for services, DORTS strives to eliminate obstacles in station interiors and exteriors, and enable the mobility impaired to enjoy MRT resources along with the general public. Furthermore, to integrate with the creation and implementation of an obstacle-free urban living environment will encourage physically and mentally disabled people to go outdoors, expanding their self-living vision, and providing them with equal opportunities to participate in public affairs.With the changes in social pulsations and design concepts, in order to reach the policy goal of \"providing the public with safe, convenient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing public transportation,\" the design concept for obstacle-free at Taipei MRT has been transferred from \"main use for the physically impaired\" at early stage to \"mutual use with the majority\" after several years of discussion with group representatives, experts, and scholars. The current design planning for the construction and related hardware facilities of the MRT's obstacle-free environment has been integrated with the universal design.The Application of Obstacle-Free Environment and the Universal DesignThe basic concept of \"Facilities for the Disabled\" is to provide related supplementary facilities depending on the needs of the disabled. The goal is to eliminate barrier between people and obstacle for movement. The content includes the elimination for the barrier of physics, system, culture, information and sense.However, the concept of obstacle-free facility cannot avoid the special facility for the special people such as the physical impaired and the elderly but lack of the multiplication and equality and even visual nature for the majority.The \"universal design\" depends on a starting point design concept to provide a wide variety of facilities which can be fairly and equality utilized by the entire public. Simply stated, the design of products, buildings and environment has taken a step further from an obstacle-free concept to the environment for all users regardless of age, being impaired and transcending differences in nationality, abilities, and gender in order to provide facilities which are available for all to use. In addition, no design change or special specification is required.According to the design concept and seven design principles of \"the universal design' which \"starts by providing everyone with a wide variety of facilities which can be used fairly and equally by everyone\", the planning and design of MRT obstacle-free environment covering the vicinity of stations, station interiors and trains are inspected while being discussed the implement and connection between all facilities and universal design.(I) Design for effective communication regardless of users' situations or users' sensory abilities1. The informational content and directional guidance of \"Outdoor signs\" for guidance to entrances/exits or elevators outside stations and signposts for obstacle-free parking spaces can be easily discerned by layout graphics and contrastive colors. In addition, the heights and shapes of these signs have the function to prevent collisions with the visually impaired.2. The layout content of light box signs or LED passenger information display system hung on the guidance path in stations utilizes graphics, text, and color contrast techniques to distinguish different labeling elements and to convey important information and directions.3. To strengthen the interpretation of information, the enlarged male and female toilet identification symbols are posted at the entrances/exits of public restrooms, and auxiliary signs informing passengers of directions and distances to obstacle-free elevators are posted on platform screen doors.4. Distinguishing information is posted on public restroom stall doors, such as squat toilet or seat toilet symbols along with Braille identification.5. Sound broadcasts in trains, station indication display screens above train doors, directional door lights, as well as system route map and single route map near train doors effectively provide important information about train movements.(II) Design cares safety and fairness1. The level difference before entrances/exits or paths is designed with steps along with ramps. Warning tiles are paved in front of hazardous areas, and contrasting colored anti-slip strips are paved on the edges of stair steps to take care of safety.2. Considering the fairness to all users, elevators are located near stairs and escalators and are gudied with tactile path.3. Mutual facilities such as public telephones, drinking fountains, ticket vending machines, and obstacle-free ticket gates provide other equipment that can fulfill functional needs of different users at the same area while caring of the usage fairness.4. In accordance with different users' habits, public restrooms are divided into those with squatting or sitting style toilets. In addition, the gender equality and multi-function are taken into consideration, an obstacle-free toilet (also for parent with toddler) and an obstacle-free toilet (also for spinal cord injured users) are also located individually.5. Braille has been added to buttons and operation panels in obstacle-free elevators, protruding floor numbers and Braille have been posted on both sides of door frames of elevators, and the height of operation panels has been lowered for wheelchair users to provide fair usage.(III) Design to provide proper dimensions and space in response to the needs of movement space1. At obstacle-free ticket gates, channels have been widened and heights have been lowered in order to facilitate the smooth movement of wheelchairs, strollers, and luggage.2. In response to the requirements of wheelchair movement, the necessary dimensions and turning spaces at entrances/exits, fronts, or interiors the facilities such as elevators, ramps, and restrooms are planned. Furthermore, the design of empty space below sinks, telephones, and drinking fountains encourage higher accessibility of equipment usage.3. In response to the needs of elderly users, the restrooms are located enlarged space with seat toilet and urinal both equipped with simple handrails.(IV) Designs that reduce users' burden and can be easily operated with allowance of mistakes.1. The designs of installed lightweight manual sliding doors in obstacle-free restrooms, electric sliding doors in parent with toddler restrooms, motion-sensing faucets, and automatic flushing toilets are utilized to reduce burdens due to limb atrophy.2. Touch-control operating panels with voice prompts are utilized in ticket gates and ticket vending machines in order to simplify procedures and reduce the incidence of errors.ConclusionThe goal of \"Universal Design\" does not require focusing on how to remove obstacles, but rather creating obstacle-free spaces and environments to be used by the entire public. The final objective and spirit should be an environment which can be safely, conveniently, and fairly utilized, and during planning and design, in addition to considering the necessity and functionality of usability for all people regardless of health or impairment of mobility and whether or not the common use will not result in conflicts or differences, external conditions such as economic feasibility, technical conditions, cultural elements, gender differences, and environmental impacts should also be incorporated into overall considerations for optimal universal design solutions.Design planning for obstacle-free environments in the MRT system has already been integrated into concepts regarding universal-use designs, and in addition to the necessary condition for perfect hardware facilities and equipment in their follow-up promotion and implementation, philosophy and advocacy are factors which cannot be neglected and must be mutually complementary in order to to multiply the effects. Furthermore, with the care and assistance provided initiatively by the general passengers if necessary, the genuine obstacle-free environment is believed just around the corner.Statutory specifications will also be required to reflect the status quo and take national conditions into account. In order to avoid misunderstandings due to differences in interpretations of standards, competent authorities should co-ordinate to promulgate design specifications, and professional training should be also expanded for law enforcement personnel and design planning professionals in order to multiply the effects. free_001.jpg\">Signage for Obstacle-free access free_002.jpg\">Obstacle-free ramp free_003.jpg\">Obstacle-free ticket gate free_004.jpg\">Braille inside elevator free_005.jpg\">Voice system inside elevator free_006.jpg\">obstacle-free elevator free_007.jpg\">Direction sign on platform free_008.jpg\">telephone ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "5768734", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=3664E229DD7B16F8", "title": "Public Arts Awards", "Content": "Established in 2007 by the Ministry of Culture, the Public Arts Awards recognize public art projects completed in certain years in Taiwan.★ \"The Way to the Very Joyance\" at the Xiaobitan Station on the Xindian line won the \"The Best Installation Entity Award\" and \"The Best Planning Award\" at the First Public Arts Awards in 2007.★ \"The Story of Lake City,\" which threads seven public artworks at the elevated section on the Wenshan-Neihu line won \"The Excellence Award\" and was also nominated for \"The Best EnvironmentalIntegration Award\" at the Third Public Arts Awards in 2012.★ \"The Story of Flying\" connects three artworks at the Songshan Airport Station on the Wenshan-Neihuline and won \"The Best Planning Award.\" It was also nominated for \"The Best Creativity Award\" atthe Third Public Arts Awards in 2012.★ \"Dancing Feathers Ascending in the Wind\" at the Luzhou Station on the Luzhou line won \"The Creativity Award\" at the Fourth Public Arts Awards in 2014.★ \"The Moment We Meet\" at the Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station on the Xinyi line won \"The Creativity Award\" and \"Online Voting for the Most Popular Works\" and was nominated for \"TheExcellence Award\" at the Fifth Public Arts Awards in 2016.\"Enjoy Green Life in Daan Park\" at the Daan Park Station on the Xinyi line was also nominated for \"TheExcellence Award\" at the Fifth Public Arts Awards in 2016.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "3248504", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=589953A983BC58D7", "title": "Public Art", "Content": "Public Art at MRT Construction Public art can be simply defined as art in public space. The space is usually open and accessible to the public. Public art should be site-specific and combined with its surroundings while at the same time being intimate, diverse, interesting and safe for the public. MRT public art should properly express the special characteristics of local cultural concerns and regional features. It should not only be beneficial in improving spatial quality, plus providing pleasant scenery and environment, but also express local culture and historic background, enhance passengers' recognition of places, and furthermore, gain public empathy and become part of daily life. Planning Process Before the \"Statute on Encouraging and Rewarding Cultural and Art Enterprises\" was promulgated on July 1, 1992, DORTS was already aware that the issue of the integration of public art and construction would soon have to be considered. DORTS has been working on an implementation strategy for installing public art in MRT stations since 1980. In 1991, DORTS invited scholars and experts to a symposium called the \"Implementation Plan for the Integration of MRT Construction and Arts.\" The following year, DORTS established a special project on MRT public art. The goals of the project were to enhance the quality of MRT space, strengthen the local context of stations, and encourage a feeling of intimacy towards MRT construction. In early 1993, the Public Art Evaluation Committee, which was composed of experts and scholars from the fields of art, architecture, landscaping and art media, was established by DORTS to help select and evaluate public art. Public Art on the Initial Network On the initial network, DORTS selected important stations such as intersection stations, terminals and stations with heavy passenger flow, for the installation of public artworks. The principles behind the location of public art were visual focus and non-interference with passenger circulation and construction schedules. The artworks included murals, children's mosaic collages, sculptures, hung forms, spatial art, interactive art, and window displays. The selection methods included open competitions, invitational competitions, direct assignments, and cooperation with children. Various public participation methods were used to shorten the distance between public art and the public. Fifteen artworks have been completed. Details of these artworks are provided on the List of Public Art. The Station as a Work of Art On the Tamsui line, many stations are works of art by themselves. The elevated stations use modern materials to reflect a traditional Chinese architectural style, such as using stainless steel to create Chinese-style window rails, using steel to construct the supporting structure in the style of a Chinese roof as well as using curved or steep roofs to express the individuality of each station. The sky windows at the entrance lobby of each ground-level station accentuate the effects of changes of light in the lobbies. Furthermore, Jiantan Station expresses the beauty of structure with its cable system; Beitou Station emphasizes its advanced technology with its space frame; Tamsui Station reflects the local context with its local architectural language. In addition to being selected by the public as one of the key landmarks of Taipei, Jiantan Station also won an award from Architect magazine in 1997. Public Art on the Long-term Network DORTS understands the importance of taking public art into consideration at the design stage. Therefore, in the general scope of service of the detailed design consultants for the long-term MRT network, DORTS stipulated that the consultant team must include a public art curator. The public art curator will be in charge of all business related to public art and act as coordinator between artists and architects. The public art curator should propose a public art plan, which includes the themes, locations, types and selection methods of artworks in order to integrate them effectively, as well as the details of the execution plan, which will be approved by the related committee and implemented one year before the station finishing work begins. The expectation is to integrate public art into its surroundings and display both as a whole. Incidentally, public art is by no means limited to sculpture. It can be combined with walls, floors, ceilings, lighting, images, sound, signage, station furniture and equipment, etc. In other words, all elements of the environment can be pieces of art. Thus, public art can be perfectly integrated into the architecture to achieve the eternal goals of making an environment artistic and making art environmental. Conclusion DORTS initially implemented its public art procedures before the \"Statute on Encouraging and Rewarding Cultural and Art Enterprises\" was promulgated. The execution methods of public art, from selection of important stations on the initial network to installation of public art and reservation of locations for public art on the long-term network, are fully flexible and can be adjusted anytime to match practical needs as well as current trends, and to honor the past and look forward to the future. In addition to pursuing high quality construction, DORTS expects that the public, while enjoying the comfort and convenience of the MRT system, can also sense its concern and enthusiasm for public art.Related Links: Public Arts AwardsGuide to Public Art on the Taipei Rapid Transit System (1)Guide to Public Art on the Taipei Rapid Transit System (2)Public Art on the Tamsui LinePublic Art on the Zhonghe LinePublic Art on the Xindian LinePublic Art on the Nangang LinePublic Art on the Nangang Eastern Extension LinePublic Art on the Banqiao LinePublic Art on the Tucheng LinePublic Art on the Wenshan-Neihu LinePublic Art on the Xinzhuang LinePublic Art on the Luzhou LinePublic Art on the Xinyi LinePublic Art on the Songshan LinePublic Art on the Tucheng Extension to Dingpu", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "3248502", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=0432388472E77383", "title": "Historic Preservation", "Content": "Preserving Our Cultural Heritage Project CN253B of the Nangang line established a model for preserving local cultural heritage while developing modern infrastructure. A Brief History of Taipei Taipei was founded in the 8th year of the Guang Xu Emperor's reign (1882) during the Qing dynasty and was completed within three years. It became the strongest fortress in Taiwan's history because of its emphasis on strong construction materials. The city wall-- located along modern day Zhongxiao West Road, Zhongshan South Road, Aiguo West Road and Zhonghua Road -- was over 5,000 meters long and about 5 meters high. In the development of modern Taipei, the old city enclosed by the wall had important value and significance.The city wall originally had five gates. But most of the wall was demolished during the Japanese colonial period, and today only four gates remain: the North Gate, East Gate, South Gate and Little South Gate.Preserving Relics of the Old City Wall At the end of 1993, relics of the Taipei City Wall, including foundations, an artillery battery and water gates, were discovered near the intersections of Zhongxiao West Road with Guanqian Road and Huaining Street during excavation work for the CN253B underground mall. Work was immediately halted, and an investigation conducted by historic preservation experts ensued. The unearthed relics were secured and a team of specialists was set up to arrange further investigation, preservation, relocation, and exhibition.The North Gate The North Gate, a Grade 1 historic site dating from 1884, is situated at the intersection of Zhongxiao West Road and Zhonghua Road. It is one of four old city gates remaining in Taipei and is the only one that is preserved in its original form. The gate remained unchanged for more than a century as the city prospered and grew. In 1996, a shield tunnel associated with Project CN253B was scheduled to pass beneath this gate, presenting a major challenge for DORTS as it sought to continue construction while preserving an important part of the city's heritage.Securing the North Gate Project CN253B, which stretched from Ximending to the Hilton Hotel (now Caesar Park Hotel), included two shield tunnels passing the north section of Zhonghua Road at different elevations. This is where the North Gate is situated. Since the upper tunnel came very close to the gate, preservation of this historic relic became a major concern. The Taipei City government therefore formed a professional preservation team, and, based on the team's recommendation, the Central District Project Office of DORTS worked with the contractor to improve the capacity of the underground soil in the area by high-pressure jet grouting. This transformed the soil between the base of the gate and the upper shield tunnel into a solid soil block, so that the tunnel could proceed without disturbing the soil beneath the gate.Upper Shield Tunnel Passes Beneath the North Gate On January 4, 1996, excavation of the upper shield tunnel, which was less than 2 meters above the lower shield tunnel, reached the North Gate area. Engineers monitored the process around-the-clock. Difficulties were encountered due to excessive strength of the soil block, and the curved alignment made the situation even more complicated. The shield tunneling machine finally passed out of the area of influence on January 29, without any damage to the gate.", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" }, { "DataSN": "3248503", "ArticleType": "0", "FileName": "", "Link": "", "Source": "https://english.dorts.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=4066BCD5578154F3&s=04CF9A4724DC2DC1", "title": "Landscape Planning", "Content": "In addition to convenience, the Taipei MRT project has also yielded new space for Taipei under elevated sections and above some underground sections of its routes. DORTS has transformed this new land into long strips of verdant green and built, among other facilities, trails for pedestrians and cyclists. These attractive spots for both passengers and local communities form a pleasant contrast to the rigid steel and cement jungle around. ", "Files": [], "Links": [], "Pictures": [], "Movies": [], "Publish Department": "Department of Rapid Transit Systems, Taipei City Government" } ]