Xindian's Shis Zhang Area Set for Major Upgrade with TOD Plan Approval

New Taipei City has officially enacted urban design principles for the Xindian B Unit redevelopment zone and the area surrounding the Shis Zhang MRT station, marking a significant step towards realizing a large-scale transit-oriented development (TOD). This plan, covering approximately 48.8 hectares, aims to transform the area into a vital commercial and residential center for Xindian. The strategy focuses on three key pillars: creating a multi-level commercial axis, establishing ventilation corridors, and enhancing green spaces for carbon sequestration. By integrating the MRT station, parks, and commercial zones, the development seeks to foster a pedestrian-friendly environment and boost commercial vitality. A central feature will be a large elevated commercial platform at the Shis Zhang MRT station, connecting the station, parks, and the B Unit commercial district, thereby building a comprehensive elevated pedestrian system. This emphasis on walkability aligns with the TOD philosophy of creating people-centric urban environments. Beyond transportation and commerce, the plan prioritizes urban cooling and carbon neutrality. Designated areas will require buildings to set back six meters from the property line, allowing for the introduction of wind corridors from the Xindian River. This will be complemented by tree-lined avenues, with a preference for high-carbon-sequestering tree species. Furthermore, south-facing building facades must incorporate at least 30% vertical greening, and the overall green coverage rate for the entire zone must exceed 100%, aiming to mitigate the urban heat island effect and create a comfortable, livable green environment. The "Circular Line Shis Zhang Station and South Depot MRT Development Project" will include substantial commercial spaces and public areas, such as observation plazas, station plazas, and linear plazas, connecting shopping malls with therapeutic gardens to provide more recreational spaces for residents. A viewing platform exceeding 12 meters in width will be established along the Xindian River, linked to the riverside park via cross-river facilities, enhancing the waterfront leisure and pedestrian system and improving the overall quality of public spaces. The adjacent Xindian Yangbei redevelopment zone, located east of the Xindian River, is one of Xindian's most prominent emerging residential areas. Its transportation is primarily served by the MRT Xiaobitan Station, with convenient external connections via Central Road to the east, Zhongzheng Road to the northeast, and Huanhe Road to the west, allowing quick access to Xindian and Taipei City. The redevelopment zone's land use is predominantly residential, with well-planned, orderly blocks and wide, comfortable roads. It also boasts the nearly 2-hectare Shis Zhang Historical Park, a significant green space within the area. Living amenities are supported by the surrounding Central New Village and Zhongzheng Road commercial districts, ensuring convenient daily shopping. Property prices in the Yangbei redevelopment zone have seen a steady increase, with the average transaction price in the past year around 923,100 NTD per ping (approximately $1,500 USD per square foot), a rise of about 3% from the previous year. This indicates sustained growth supported by MRT construction, redevelopment projects, and regional development benefits. As the Shis Zhang MRT joint development project and surrounding commercial facilities are gradually completed, the living and commercial functions are expected to further improve, with the area's development potential continuing to attract market attention.