Public input sought on LRT expansion plans

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has called on residents to provide feedback on the city’s Light Rapid Transit development strategy, saying public views will be an important reference for long-term planning.

Following an Executive Council decision, the Public Works Bureau’s (DSOP) “Strategic Study for the Development of the Macao Light Rapid Transit” outlines six new routes planned after the East Line is completed in 2029. Authorities said planning is divided into short-, medium- and long-term phases.

Short-term projects include extending the East Line and the Seac Pai Van Line. Medium-term plans include the 7.7-kilometer South Line with seven stations and the 3.7-kilometer initial West Line from Qingmao to Fai Chi Kei, which will have six stations.

Long-term proposals include the 3.9-kilometer Taipa North Line with five stops and the 2.2-kilometer Taipa Central Line connecting Esparteiro, Taipa Central Park, and the Jockey Club area.

Sam said the overall direction of the plan was based on consultants’ research reflecting Macau’s local conditions. He urged stakeholders to provide considered opinions to help refine future planning.

DSOP director Lam Wai Ho said the East Line project is about 60% complete and remains on schedule for 2029 completion. He said the government will continue to listen to public feedback during the planning process.

“We have been strictly regulating, the increment and progress of the project, currently the total has been completed 60% of it,” Lam said in a TDM Forum.

The bureau also reported steady progress in Zone A developments, including five public housing plots and two social housing sites expected to be completed this year. Construction of A8 and A9 facilities is planned for 2027, along with preparatory works for schools on the B1 plot.