Dajia Station in Taichung is a key transportation hub in the coastal region, situated near the bustling Jenn Lann Temple. The area attracts numerous local and international worshippers as well as tourists. To address the growing demand for parking, the city government’s Transportation Bureau has optimized the use of available parking spaces. In early November, 44 new car parking spots were added to the Jiahou Parking Lot, increasing the total to 118 spaces, including the previous 74. This expansion helps accommodate parking needs for both residents and visitors, and it also includes the installation of a 65-meter-long reinforced concrete drainage facility, improving drainage and the overall environment in the area.
Director Yeh Chao-fu of the Transportation Bureau noted that the rear station of Dajia Station serves as a major transfer point for commuters and students. Many commuters park their vehicles near the station before continuing their journey by train or other public transport to downtown or other areas. With the high demand for long-term parking in the station's vicinity, the need to increase parking spaces has become urgent. In response, the Transportation Bureau has considered public feedback and local representatives' suggestions, quickly moving forward with improvement plans. The expansion of the existing Jiahou Parking Lot has added 44 new parking spaces in early November. With the 74 spaces already available, the total parking capacity now exceeds 100, significantly easing the parking pressure in the area. “Just as devotees offer sincere prayers to Matsu, the Transportation Bureau has carefully planned the parking lot.”
Director Yeh noted that many visitors take public transportation to the Dajia area, and Dajia Station is the first impression tourists have of Dajia. From there, tourists often head out to explore, with the famous Jenn Lann Temple nearby. The temple attracts large numbers of visitors on both weekdays and weekends, who come to pray, enjoy local food, and buy souvenirs, resulting in a significant need for parking. To address the long-standing parking shortage around Dajia Station, the Transportation Bureau has actively expanded the Jiahou Parking Lot in Dajia District, improving traffic flow in the area and making it more convenient for people to drop off or pick up passengers.
Director Yeh noted that the Taichung International Softball Field, which is located close to Dajia District, is a key venue for softball games and training. The field regularly hosts large softball events and other sports activities, drawing a large number of participants, spectators, and staff. During these events, parking demand surges. To address this, the Transportation Bureau has partnered with the Sports Bureau to utilize nearby vacant land, creating 125 additional parking spaces for the field. With the efforts of the Transportation Bureau in creating parking spaces, the number of parking facilities in the coastal region has increased. The city government has made it one of its key infrastructure projects, based on local needs.
According to the Parking Management Office of Taichung City, constructing a new parking lot is limited by factors such as land availability, budget, and construction time. In contrast, expanding existing parking areas to add spaces provides a quicker and more efficient solution. The Transportation Bureau has successfully increased the number of parking spaces at the Jiahou Parking Lot in Dajia District, which has been positively received by both local residents and tourists. Furthermore, with the completion of the pedestrian overpass at Dajia Station, the flow between the front and rear stations is now seamless, making it easier for people to pick up and drop off passengers and improving the surrounding traffic. The project for expanding parking and drainage facilities at the Jiahou Parking Lot was completed on schedule and met quality standards.
The Transportation Bureau noted that it will keep a close eye on parking demands in different areas, addressing public needs through active improvements. In locations with high parking demand, the Bureau will utilize available land on a rolling basis to create additional parking spaces in various ways. With the help of smart technology to enhance parking quality, it aims to support the growth of nearby commercial areas.