Taoyuan Shrine Markers Obscured by Roadwork, Sparking Criticism

Construction to improve sidewalks along Chenggong Road in Taoyuan City's Taoyuan District has sparked public outcry. Critics argue the project is obscuring historical elements of the Taoyuan Shrine, a city-designated historic site.

Specifically, the base of the shrine's entrance marker has been covered by a layer of cement, and the inscription honoring Xu Chongde, the first post-war Taoyuan County Magistrate, on the original狛 (guardian lion) base is partially buried by gravel. A netizen lamented online, "What a pity! Historical relics are being covered like this."

The Taoyuan City Government's Public Works Department began the improvement project in late October last year. The work spans from the Martyrs' Shrine to the Taolin Railway, with future plans to extend it to the old city area. Officials explained that the sidewalk at the shrine's entrance had a height difference that needed leveling. They also stated that the project plans were submitted for review before construction began, and the area around the狛 base was given protective gravel.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau confirmed that the Public Works Department submitted relevant drawings before construction. These were reviewed by the bureau and cultural heritage committee members, including an on-site inspection. The bureau noted that the project is still ongoing with final adjustments being made and that they will continue to monitor the situation.

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What a pity! Historical relics are being covered like this.