Stretch along Pan Island Expressway receives noise barriers

The six metre-high noise barriers will run for about 400m along the edge in each direction of the Pan Island Expressway (PIE) next to Swiss View and Greenbank Park, The Straits Times reported. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling a tender today and work will start next year.

Holland-Bukit Timah GRC MP Sim Ann said she has been pushing for noise barriers for the residents living next to the PIE.

"Among the neighbourhoods I look after, the Swiss View and Greenbank Park areas have been the most exposed to heightened traffic noise, and I welcome the fact that noise barriers will be installed at these locations first... LTA has heard us," said Ms. Sim.

The transport authority said the project will help to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing noise barriers along at-grade sections of expressways.

Unlike viaducts and flyovers, at-grade sections often have roadside trees, lamp posts, signs, drains and uneven terrain - all of which can prevent construction of barriers, or limit their effectiveness, said LTA.

Since last year, the LTA has been testing the use of noise barriers. These were installed along Anak Bukit Flyover last October and LTA is also building them along West Coast Highway near Block 44, Telok Blangah Drive, and the new flyover along Braddell Road, near Block 138, Bishan Street 12.