Sim Gyusong: "KT&G Site Should Become a Citizen's Park"

―Regarding the demand for simultaneous ground-breaking on the comprehensive extension of the Shinbundang Line.
▲The government plans to proceed in two phases, but from the perspective of Suwon City and its citizens, and in terms of budget efficiency, simultaneous ground-breaking should be implemented. I understand that Gyeonggi Province plans to invest 500 billion won, and Suwon City plans to invest 25 billion won. I believe that with approximately 1 trillion won in financing secured, simultaneous ground-breaking is possible. Not only for Suwon citizens but also to resolve traffic inconveniences for residents in southern Gyeonggi Province, the extension should be opened through simultaneous ground-breaking. Additionally, stations should be established in the Yeonmoo-dong and Jowon-dong areas on the Gwanggyo to Homaesil section.

―Your position on pursuing Suwon Metropolitan City status.
▲I believe that the upgrade to metropolitan city status should be pursued. Ulsan Metropolitan City has metropolitan administrative systems despite having a smaller population than Suwon. During my time as a provincial councilor, I have consistently emphasized the metropolitan city upgrade. Suwon City should be able to autonomously exercise authority in all areas including personnel, organization, and finances, and such effects will contribute to Suwon's development. While opposition from Gyeonggi Province is expected, I believe the mayor, provincial governor, and members of the National Assembly should all work together to actively pursue the upgrade.

―What about the relocation of Suwon Air Base?
▲Given the sacrifices that citizens have endured over the past 40 years, relocation should be considered, but national defense transcends personal interests. First and foremost, following the example of the Maehyang-ri Gun firing range, a thorough survey of damages must be conducted. By accurately investigating noise damage, compensation should be provided to residents. If there is damage, government compensation should be the priority. I will petition the Minister of National Defense and the President so that this matter can be urgently discussed and Suwon citizens can live in comfort, and residents must receive compensation for noise damage.

―How can we vitalize small business owners and traditional markets?
▲While 500,000 new businesses are being established, 400,000 businesses are going bankrupt. If small business owners collapse, 1.2 million people will be forced onto the streets. To overcome this national crisis, the Lee Myung-bak administration will take measures to revitalize the economy, but local governments must also take the lead in economic revitalization. We need to reduce credit card processing fees by half, expand parking facilities, and devise special policies for small business owners such as promoting low-priced, high-quality market products. I will provide policy support so that local governments can proactively assist small business owners and traditional markets.

―How should the KT&G manufacturing plant site in Jeongja-dong be utilized?
▲The KT&G site should become a citizen's park that looks ahead more than 100 years, like Central Park in America. If this area is developed, I believe we should introduce some commercial functions (revitalization of commercial functions around transit hubs) and create facilities that can be utilized as public cultural areas. We must secure more than 50% green space in the park and utilize it as facilities for residents' leisure.

―Regarding the designation of Gwanggyo Mountain as a provincial park and its conservation.
▲It is not an overstatement to say that Gwanggyo Mountain, the lungs and treasure of Suwon, bears responsibility for a significant part of Suwon citizens' health. Designating the Gwanggyo Mountain area as a provincial park may result in administrative and economic losses. We must improve the current situation subject to regulations as a development restriction zone and water supply protection zone, and devise conservation measures. We must explore various ways to ensure that citizens can use and enjoy the area comfortably.

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