Yes, I remember. But it was many years back when 42 was
condemned to Darts running every 20 mins. The area has become a lot
more populated since. Now a 12m SD can be packed to the door during
peak hours along Lengkong 3/4, operating at 8-12 min intervals.
Unfortunately, the area is largely private housing with about 10
HDB blocks, so it is not the usual candidate for a new BSEP service
in LTA's mind. Now with LTA planning, there is a politcial angle as
well so obviously areas that are perceived to be more needy are
given priority. But I maintain that while it is an affluent area,
it is a very poorly connected and densely populated area. The other
similar area is Joo Chiat which has poor MRT connections and few
services.
I think it will eventually come. LTA seems to be shoring up
missing connections to Marine Parade. First in Bedok South with 47,
and now with 134 in Sims Pl/Geylang East Central. It is a positive
trend and I hope that once HDB estates are given access, LTA will
also look into connections in the private housing estates. After
all, other BSEP services like 4, 41 and 122 serve a much higher
proportion of private housing than other BSEP services.
4, 41 and 122 is different.
4 was to serve Flora Dr condominiums + Upper Changi Industrial
Estate
41 was to connect Toh Guan HDB and Toh Tuck Industrial Estate to
Beauty World MRT
122 was to connect Alexandra Road and Margaret HDBs/condos to
Tiong Bahru MRT.
With Opera Estate / Frankel, the issue it is mostly landed
property - very few condominiums also. So buses will run empty most
times.