The Nanyang Technological University (NTU), JTC and
SMRT signed an agreement that aims to "seamlessly integrate"
traditional bus and train services with new transport modes.
The combined 250ha of the NTU campus and JTC's
neighbouring CleanTech Park will act as a testbed for this project,
that will also include transportation options such as autonomous
vehicles and personal mobility devices.
An app - that will allow commuters to plan journeys
based on cost, time and convenience around these various modes of
transport - will also be developed.
"Within 12 months we will develop an app, bring in new
modes of transport and see how to integrate the old and the new so
that commuters will benefit," said SMRT Services managing director
Colin Lim.
While JTC and SMRT said it is too early to say how much
the project might cost, NTU said it will pump in $3 million over
the next three years. The university will also have 20 researchers
working on the project.
NTU provost Professor Freddy Boey said the project
would leverage on the university's "deep expertise in engineering
and low-carbon transportation solutions".
The initiative will eventually be expanded to the 600ha
of the Jurong Innovation District - which includes NTU, CleanTech
Park, as well as the surrounding areas of Bulim, Behar and
Tengah.
"We believe these efforts will not only improve last
mile connectivity in the Jurong Innovation District, but also
transform commuter experience," said JTC chief executive officer
Png Cheong Boon.
ST