Building the Beibei-Tao 1-Hour Living Circle! Taoyuan Metro Brown Line Early Works Begin, Connecting 5 Major Taipei-Keeelung Rail Networks

The vision of a 1-hour living circle connecting Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan takes a major leap forward. Major progress has been announced for the long-anticipated Taoyuan Metro Brown Line, with Taoyuan Mayor Chang Shan-cheng officially launching early construction today (9th) for the Taoyuan–Guishan–Huilong section. This golden transit corridor, costing NT$45.6 billion, spans 11.38 kilometers and includes seven stations. Upon completion, it will enable travel from Taoyuan Station to Huilong Station in just 18 minutes.

To prevent a repeat of past traffic disruptions during metro construction, the city government has initiated a 270-day early works phase. This phase prioritizes sidewalk unification and pedestrian environment improvements, aiming to minimize traffic congestion for residents before main construction begins.

According to the Taoyuan Rapid Transit Corporation, the Brown Line’s comprehensive planning has been approved by central authorities, with a total budget of approximately NT$45.6 billion. The route originates at Taoyuan Railway Station, passing through areas near Taoyuan Arena, Guishan District, and Lunghwa University of Science and Technology, ultimately connecting to the Huilong area in New Taipei City.

Key specifications and connectivity plans for the Brown Line include: - Station Configuration: Approximately 11.38 km in length, with seven stations (five underground and two elevated). - Operational Benefits: Estimated 18-minute travel time from Taoyuan Station to Huilong Station upon opening. - Five Network Integrations: Will strongly connect Taiwan Railways, Taoyuan Metro Green Line, Taoyuan Airport MRT, Taipei Metro Zhonghe-Xinlu Line, and Wanda Line, forming a more comprehensive public transportation system.

Mayor Chang emphasized that in addition to pushing for the Green Line’s northern section to open by year-end, the Brown Line will be extended further to the city’s Second Administrative Park and integrated with the Orange Line and other metro networks, gradually transforming Taoyuan’s transportation landscape.

To avoid a 'traffic dark age,' the 270-day early works phase has been launched, including overpass removals and sidewalk unification. This phase begins on July 9, 2026, and will focus on adjustments between BR02 and BR08 stations. Work includes sidewalk leveling and unification, removal of the Jishe Overpass pedestrian bridge, relocation of roadside vegetation, and adjustments to roads, sidewalks, and existing public facilities. These preparatory measures aim to significantly reduce the impact on daily life and traffic for residents in Guishan District and along the route before full-scale excavation begins.