Longke Phase III to be revived! Blue and Green representatives are optimistic about TSMC's investment, urging attention to key issues
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The expansion plan for the Longtan Science Park (Longke Phase III) is being revived, with TSMC reportedly interested in investing in next-generation advanced packaging facilities.
- Local politicians from both the KMT and DPP parties express optimism and support for TSMC's potential investment, while also urging for better planning regarding housing and transportation.
- Concerns include the need for adequate relocation and resettlement for residents, the establishment of new schools, and managing potential housing price surges due to the development.
The revival of the Longke Phase III expansion plan signals a significant development for Taiwan's semiconductor industry and the local economy of Longtan. The potential investment by TSMC in advanced packaging facilities is seen as a major boost, promising job creation and technological advancement. Local representatives, spanning the political spectrum from the KMT to the DPP, have largely welcomed the news, recognizing the strategic importance of TSMC's presence.
Longtan doesn't lack water or electricity. I am optimistic that the promotion should be accelerated, and I ask the city government to increase the land by 3 hectares and build new junior and elementary schools with bilingual education to completely satisfy the educational needs of the park's employees' children.
However, the enthusiasm is tempered with practical considerations. Local officials are emphasizing the need for comprehensive urban planning to accommodate the influx of workers and potential population growth. Key concerns include ensuring adequate housing, particularly affordable options and social housing, and managing the impact on existing infrastructure. The relocation of residents and the establishment of new educational facilities, such as schools, are also high on the agenda to ensure a smooth integration of the new industrial park.
In the past, the promotion of Longke Phase III was mainly blocked by residents forming a self-help group to protest. However, when TSMC announced 'it's not coming' back then, the members regretted it and immediately disappeared.
There is a palpable sense of urgency to address potential challenges proactively. The rapid increase in property values in the Longtan area is a significant concern, with calls for government intervention to prevent runaway speculation and ensure housing remains accessible. The experience of past development projects serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of balancing industrial growth with the well-being of the local community and sustainable urban development. The successful implementation of Longke Phase III hinges on effective collaboration between the government, TSMC, and the local community to mitigate negative impacts and maximize the benefits for the region.
When TSMC and other technology companies bring thousands of job opportunities to Longke, the city government should let office workers settle in Longtan. Currently, there are few residential areas, and the amount of housing that can be built is small. We must avoid the situation where high-priced housing makes it unaffordable for office workers.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.