Jon Sealey, Design Director of M&J has released images of the revised Bangkok Skyride proposal. Bamboo has been used as the main structure to create two separate elevated cycle highways located under the existing elevated train line.
By utilizing the disused space under the existing BTS skytrain up to 10 lanes of cycle traffic can be installed, freeing up space at road level for dedicated bus and motorbike lanes. “ Bamboo has many unique properties and has been used as a building material in Thailand for generations which makes it perfect for this proposal.” Explains Jon.
Becoming exasperated by continual knock backs from investors and contractors on the original scheme, Jon decided to readdress the design of the 55 KM highway making it easier, cheaper and quicker to build and even more culturally relevant. “ The aim is to build a full scale mock-up of one module in Bangkok.
There are a number of local people who can help to build it. It was always my intention to involve the communities as much as possible. By using this design I am able to utilize the skill set of local craftsmen to erect the mock-up” Jon explains “ I want this project to be about the people of Thailand and to create a more sustainable city for us all to live in”
Thai Baskets
Taking inspiration from traditional Thai baskets the structure is self supporting and exploits the unique properties of Bamboo. The design is built in modules and constructed off-site in a factory. Each module is 8 Meters long and can be delivered by truck to the location and then craned into position.
The system allows for very quick assembly to reduce disruption to Sukhumvit Road. The Highways will reduce communiting times by up to 2 hours and sail above all intersections and traffic lights making it a sustainible, uniterupted mode of transportation.
Advertising
Embedded into the proposal are the potential for LED advertising boards at high level and also advertisement in the cycle track its self. Companies are encouraged to invest into the projects as part of a CSR campaign.
A cycle App also accompanies the scheme which encourages cyclists to ride together and gain points as they ride which in tern can be redeemed at local cafes. The App will also allow retailers to personalize adverts to individual cyclists via large LED screens along route. The proposal will have substantial impact on the city and the people living in it on many different levels.
It’s a scheme that provides sustainable transportation and more efficient and effective connectivity for generations to come. Bangkok would be the first city in Asia to construct such a scheme and it seriously has the potential to become ground breaking. The vision is that Bangkok wont be seen as another polluted Asian City but rather a sustainable, green city that is forward thinking and more in-keeping with the people of Thailand.
Jon is searching for funding to make the full scale mock-up so the structure can be tested and If completed, the Skyride will be the first large scale infrastructure project built from Bamboo. Source and images Courtesy of Jon Sealey, Design Director of M&J.