SINGAPORE

Residents in the Woodlands area can now breathe a sigh of relief as the newly launched trunk bus service 967 simplifies their daily commutes. With its operational debut on January 12, this much-anticipated route is part of a broader $900 million enhancement scheme aimed at improving public transport across Singapore.

Mr. Jefri Mohamed, a 50-year-old local who juggles health issues, shared that previously, traveling from Champions Way to Woodlands Polyclinic required navigating two different bus services and a transfer at Woodlands interchange. Thanks to bus service 967, he now has a direct line to his appointments, significantly easing his travel burden.

Residents are hailing the service not only for its convenience but also for its role in reducing travel time across the region. The service operates between Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange, threading through Woodlands Avenue 3 and Avenue 1, and looping around Woodlands Drive 17. With buses running every 12 to 15 minutes and the first departure at 5:30 AM and the last at 12:30 AM, this new route is shaping up to be a vital addition to the area's public transport network.

This initiative falls under the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme, which aims to expand public transport links in response to the shifting demographics and rising residential developments in Singapore. Over the next eight years, funding will facilitate the acquisition of more buses, recruitment of additional staff, and construction of essential infrastructure designed to enhance the overall commuting experience.

Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC MPs Zaqy Mohamad and Hany Soh emphasized the newly launched service's critical importance, particularly in connecting underserved regions like Woodgrove. They remarked that the new 967 route responds directly to public demand, providing necessary access to key locations such as the newly opened Woodlands Health Campus, a facility that will continue to play a crucial role in community health.

For many families, such as Ms. Nur Eliyana, who resides near Marsiling MRT station, bus service 967 represents a game changer. The convenience of a direct route to her in-laws’ home on Woodlands Street 41 is just one of the benefits of the new service, which opens doors for efficient travel directly to various amenities, schools, and healthcare facilities.

To commemorate the launch, over 100 attendees gathered at Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange to celebrate this significant transport upgrade. The event included the distribution of certificates and memorabilia, attracting bus enthusiasts and local residents alike.

Looking forward, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has plans for further expansions of bus services in both new and existing neighborhoods. This commitment to enhancing public transport infrastructure comes at a time when Singapore's population is steadily growing, demanding more efficient and connected commuting options.

The future looks bright for Woodlands commuters with this new bus service and more improvements anticipated, ensuring that residents can be well-connected as new housing projects—such as the 1,540-unit Woodgrove Ascent and 1,127-unit Woodgrove Edge—are lined up.

Stay tuned for more updates as the thriving community of Woodlands embraces these exciting changes in public transport!