Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on Update on Current Bus Stop Bench Replacement Exercise

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Transport

a.     when was the previous bus stop bench replacement exercise done and how much was spent;

b.     when is the current bench replacement exercise expected to end; and

c.     how long are these new benches expected to last.

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1.     The replacement of bus shelter benches is an ongoing effort. Bus shelter benches are generally replaced when bus shelters are upgraded to better serve commuter needs, when bus shelters need to be relocated or when the benches are no longer in working condition.

2.     Over the past five years, around 500 benches were replaced at a cost of around $500 to $1,500 per bench, excluding installation costs. The benches at about 2,300 bus shelters which are at least 15 years old are progressively being replaced by 2020. The new benches come with wider seats and arm rests and are expected to last at least 20 years.