The northeastern Taiwan port city of Keelung is readying for a face-lift following the announcement of six local infrastructure projects April 18 by the ROC Ministry of Finance.
“Keelung is a major cargo port and point of entry for foreign visitors arriving via cruise ships,” an MOF official said. “These projects will help harness the city’s tourism potential and spur the local economy.”
Set for implementation under the build-operate-transfer model, the projects are a gondola connecting the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology and Heping Island; two transportation hubs; a parking tower; and two urban renewal projects near Taiwan Railways Administration’s Keelung Station and Heping Island.
“Our plan to remodel the train station and two adjacent wharfs is the largest in the city’s history,” the official said. Covering 66,260 square meters, the project will house a new office building for port authorities, hotels, shopping centers and renovated transportation systems.
Over NT$13 billion (US$436.2 million) in public funds have been earmarked for related infrastructure projects, the official said, adding that the city expects the development plan to attract private investment of NT$12.8 billion.
The projects were unveiled during a visit to Keelung by an MOF delegation comprising officials and nearly 40 business leaders from sectors spanning financial services, hospitality and real estate.
According to the official, the MOF and port authorities will begin working to attract private investors later this year. Construction is scheduled to begin after the first round of investment promotion wraps up in 2015. (JSM)
Write to Meg Chang at sfchang@mofa.gov.tw