Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo transforms old railway into a new green corridor

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

To make effective use of the continuous, strip-shaped open land spaces around the former railway tracks after the elevated rail project in Taichung, the city government proposed the “Green Open Corridor—Elevated Railway Vacant Corridor” plan, aiming to integrate the existing greenway system and provide pedestrian and bicycle corridors to establish Taichung as a cycling city.

The plan will be carried out in three phases. The first phase, which is currently under construction, stretches from Jinde Road to the border between Beitun District and Tanzi District, covering approximately 4.1 kilometers. The second phase extends from the Beitun-Tanzi border to Fengyuan Station, spanning 9.2 kilometers. The third phase covers 2.92 kilometers from Wucyuan Road to the south side of Daqing Station.

Part of this plan includes the Green Open Railway, which opens up a roughly 1.6-kilometer-long, 4-meter-wide bicycle corridor along the old railway line. It has been confirmed that the renowned Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo will be responsible for the spatial design.

To connect the new and old stations, the team has created a green walkway and cycling space with views over the city. The design also includes gardens, sports fields, playgrounds, observation decks, and water-friendly facilities—all spaces that combine leisure and entertainment, complementing the nearby Green River.