Creating a Sustainable 'City Breathing Art Gallery': Taichung Metro Blue Line Underground Section Design Unveiled

To accelerate the construction of the Metro Blue Line, Taichung City's Rapid Transit Bureau held an industry briefing on June 25 for the underground section in Longjing and Xitun Districts, outlining the project scope and key challenges. Simultaneously, the highly anticipated architectural designs for the underground segment from B09 to B20 stations were unveiled for the first time. The section stretches from B09 Station (located between W. Taiwan Blvd. Sec. 5, Youyuan N/S Rd., and International St.) in the west to B20 Station (near the intersection of Leye and Jinde Rds.) in the east.

Rapid Transit Bureau Director Su Jui-wen stated that all underground stations on the Blue Line aim to obtain candidate certifications for 'Smart Building' and 'Green Building,' integrating design concepts rooted in natural environments, spatial aesthetics, and historical culture. The spatial design adopts a 'minimalist aesthetic,' with lightweight station entrances featuring horizontal shading roofs and energy-saving glass facades. By incorporating sunlight, greenery, and local culture, the project aims to create a 'City Breathing Art Gallery' that enhances citizens' daily commuting experiences and leads Taichung toward a sustainable, environmentally harmonious city.

Director Su noted that the underground section features diverse design themes tailored to regional characteristics. Stations B09 to B14 follow the concept of 'Arrow of the Spring, Flowing Toward Infinity,' linking the slow-living ambiance of the 'Tunghai International Art Street' at the foothills of Dadu Mountain, the academic atmosphere of Tunghai University, and the industrial energy of the Taichung Industrial Zone, extending eastward to the Pazih Creek green corridor and transportation hubs. This segment further connects with Qiuhonggu Valley, Children's Book Forest, and the city center, integrating with the Green Line to form a cityscape blending intellect and urban life.

Stations B15 to B20 adopt the concept of 'Light.Link,' transforming the flowing rail system into a network of light that intersects and extends through urban space. The design begins with the cultural ambiance of Caowu Boulevard, connecting the historical fabric of old urban areas like the Second Market and Taichung Railway Station. Through light-and-shadow themes and spatial integration, this section aspires to become a new landmark showcasing Taichung's cultural charm.

In terms of environmental sustainability, the entire line's landscape will exclusively use native tree species with low maintenance needs, combined with permeable paving and ecological greening strategies to promote low-carbon development. Inside the stations, standardized, modular green building material systems will be fully implemented across concourse and platform levels. This not only significantly improves construction efficiency and maintenance convenience but also supports lifecycle management of buildings, demonstrating the city government's firm commitment to sustainable and smart urban development.

The Rapid Transit Bureau emphasized that the Taichung Metro Blue Line is not merely a vital transportation artery connecting the city but will also become a model of public space that integrates architectural aesthetics, environmental sustainability, and local culture. The city government will continue to steadily advance the project with professionalism and rigor, working with all citizens to build a more convenient and livable Taichung.