Elevated highway space to be transformed into basketball court with government funding

The Mailiao Township Office in Yunlin County is set to revitalize the space beneath an elevated highway, transforming it into a much-needed basketball court. This initiative comes in response to local requests for more sports facilities, particularly in the northern areas of the township where outdoor courts are scarce.

Currently, Mailiao Township has only two outdoor basketball courts. The proposed location is an open space under the elevated section of Provincial Highway 61 in the Shicuo area. The township office plans to install two fixed basketball hoops, lighting, and fencing, with an estimated project cost of 5.51 million NT dollars. However, the local office faces financial constraints and is seeking central government support.

Minister of Culture's Sports Administration, Lee Ming-yen, visited the site for an inspection. The administration has pledged to allocate 3.5 million NT dollars to assist the township office. Lee, a former athlete, emphasized the importance of accessible sports venues and expressed hope for continued cooperation between local and central governments to improve sports environments for the public.

“

As an athlete, I naturally want comfortable venues for the public to exercise. I hope that cooperation between the central and local governments on sports facilities can create a better sports environment.

Legislator Ding Xue-zhong highlighted the suitability of the under-bridge location, noting that the existing shade would offer greater comfort compared to open-air courts, especially during Yunlin's hot and sunny summers. He also pointed out the steady population growth in Mailiao Township, underscoring the need for versatile recreational spaces that cater to all ages.

According to Cai Wen-juan, Director of the Sports Administration's Facility Planning Division, Yunlin County is classified as a fourth-level financial category, allowing for a maximum subsidy of 70% for such projects. The 3.5 million NT dollar funding will be approved soon, enabling the township office to proceed with the design and construction planning.

“

The shaded conditions under the bridge are more conducive to use than open-air courts, especially considering the strong sunlight and high temperatures in the coastal areas of Yunlin during summer.