Dangerous Miaoli Highway Section to Receive $15 Million Upgrade

A dangerous stretch of Provincial Highway 17 in Zhaocao Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan, is set to undergo significant safety upgrades following a commitment of NT$15 million from county authorities. The road, a vital link between Zhaocao, Sanwan, and Nanzhuang townships, has long been a concern due to its narrow lanes, sharp bends, and limited sightlines.

Adding to the hazards, erosion has begun to undermine the foundation of a nearby riverbank, further compromising the safety of the roadway. Miaoli County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin, after an on-site inspection with the County Public Works Department, pledged NT$10 million in county funding. This will be combined with NT$5 million from the Zhaocao Township Office, bringing the total investment to NT$15 million for the improvement project, which will be managed by the township office.

The planned improvements focus on a 60-meter section of the winding road. The project aims to widen the road, create passing bays, and modify the road's alignment to improve visibility and overall network safety. The Zhaocao Township Office highlighted that the current conditions force drivers to slow down considerably, a situation locals have long wished to see addressed.

Beyond the road's alignment, the project will also include the construction of a approximately 25-meter cross-stream drainage culvert. This will serve a dual purpose: managing water flow and reinforcing the riverbank to prevent further erosion and soil washout. The township office also sees this as an opportunity to revitalize surrounding land use and increase parking availability in the area.