New Provincial Highway 17 Southern Section 'New Road' Appears, Kaohsiung City Public Works Bureau Announces Opening Time

Residents and commuters in Kaohsiung are buzzing with anticipation as a newly paved and marked 700-meter stretch of the southern section of Provincial Highway 17, dubbed the 'new road,' has appeared. This visible progress has led to speculation about an early opening, a sentiment echoed by local media like Liberty Times. However, the Kaohsiung Public Works Bureau has clarified that while the progress is encouraging, the entire southern segment, from Demin Road to Nanmen Roundabout, remains on track for a unified opening by the end of 2026. This phased approach, with the northern section already open since June 2022, aims to maximize the new highway's efficiency. The bureau detailed the progress of the southern section's three phases, noting that one segment of the second phase is nearing completion. The anticipation for this new artery is palpable, as it promises to significantly alleviate traffic congestion on the old Provincial Highway 17, reducing travel distance by 26% and cutting travel time by approximately 30%. This infrastructure development is a crucial step in Kaohsiung's urban planning, reflecting a commitment to improving connectivity and easing the daily commute for its residents.