Bali's Second Columbarium Breaks Ground in New Taipei City, Set for 2029 Completion

New Taipei City is addressing a growing need for funeral services with the commencement of construction for a second columbarium in Bali District. The existing Cien Columbarium in Bali has reached full capacity, prompting the city government to develop a new facility to serve its residents.

Mayor Hou Yu-ih presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the new columbarium, which is slated for completion in April 2029. The facility will significantly expand the city's capacity, offering space for 54,700 niches, 13,000 memorial牌位 (spirit tablets), and around 2,100 spots for green burials. This initiative aligns with evolving public attitudes towards memorialization and a rising environmental consciousness.

The project is a key component of New Taipei City's "decentralized facilities, traffic diversion, and adjusted capacity" funeral policy. The city is also planning new columbaria in Tamsui, Wugu, and Linkou to further improve its funeral service infrastructure. The new Bali columbarium will include a green burial area, reflecting the national trend towards eco-friendly funeral practices, which now account for over 14% of all burials nationwide.

Designed with a budget of approximately 829 million yuan, the four-story structure will integrate with the surrounding hillside terrain and offer views of the Tamsui River. It will feature natural lighting through central skylights, semi-outdoor祭祀 (worship) spaces, and landscaped terraces to create a solemn yet peaceful environment. The project also includes improvements to local roads to enhance accessibility for visitors.