Pyeongtaek City to Create Memorial Space at Former Tongbok Overpass Site

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Jung Jun-seong] Pyeongtaek City announced on the 12th that it will create a space to preserve the historical value of the Tongbok Overpass and enhance citizen convenience at the site where the overpass will be demolished.

The Tongbok Overpass opened in 1980 to connect the Tongbok-dong area divided by the Gyeongbu Railway Line and has been in use for 41 years, but safety concerns have been raised.

In particular, the overpass received a Grade C rating in the bridge safety assessment, requiring excessive maintenance costs. Additionally, a section of the bridge was designated as replacement land within the Tongbok District urban development zone, making it impossible to preserve the overpass.

Local residents also consistently demanded the demolition of the Tongbok Overpass, citing obstructed views and negative effects on the local economy. Following the temporary opening of the Tongbok Underpass in March, the city has been proceeding with demolition of the overpass.

Separate from the demolition work, the city is also working to preserve the historical value of the Tongbok Overpass in response to requests from the local community, recognizing the need to commemorate the overpass that has been part of citizens' lives for over 40 years.

To this end, the city plans to construct a commemorative marker preserving the history of the Tongbok Overpass by utilizing some of the surviving bridge pillars and the bridge nameplate from the demolished site. These markers will contain memories of the Tongbok Overpass, including its origins, how it was used over 40 years, and the demolition process.

Additionally, the city plans to develop the Tongbok Overpass area into a park to expand leisure space for citizens, and to construct a commercial access road and parking lot to enhance citizen convenience.

Mayor Jung Jang-seon said, "It is unfortunate that the Tongbok Overpass, which holds the joys and sorrows of citizens, will be demolished," adding "The city will preserve the historical value of this location through efforts to preserve the memories of the Tongbok Overpass and will enhance citizen convenience and leisure opportunities through expansion of urban infrastructure."