TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The opening of the Keelung Transit Station in July last year made the adjacent Kuo Kuang Bus Station on Gangxi Street redundant, leading to its decommissioning and demolition.

After some debate, city officials decided to use the land for a temporary plaza, which will include a taxi queue, pick-up area, and other connecting facilities. Surface paving has already begun, with the plaza expected to be completed by the end of November, per CNA.

Liao Jun-yu (廖俊育) of the Keelung City Government’s Department of Public Works said Sunday that the project, located on the west bank of Keelung Port, is part of a broader port regeneration effort. The plan aims to integrate the former bus station site with Keelung Port.

According to Liao, the Department of Public Works will oversee future improvements to the plot once occupied by the station, creating a “national gateway” to Keelung Port.

Liao said the city budgeted NT$6 million (US$197,000) for temporary pavement in front of the station. He noted that paving colors could include gray, brick red, and ocean blue, though the final scheme will be chosen by a landscape consultant to reflect Keelung’s character and the port’s environment.

Future construction will also create a safer and smoother walking environment, better connecting the transportation hub with the nearby port, he added.