New riverside greenway promotes environmental travel

The first riverside greenway in Beijing has been completed with a total length of 4.2 kilometers, stretching from Muxidi in Xicheng district in the north to Baizhifang Bridge in Fengtai district at its southern end.

"Currently, only the first stage of the greenway project has been finished. It's been designed with bike lanes and footpaths, together with some sightseeing stands and restrooms," the head of the administrative office, surnamed Wang, from the Xicheng district landscape and forestry office told the Global Times Monday.

Eventually, the riverside park will extend to 9.3 kilometers to Yongdingmen Bridge in Dongcheng district. Wang did not know the expected date of completion.

The project also introduced a "slow traffic system" (without motor vehicles) into the free-to-enter greenway which has 16.2 kilometers of footpaths and 3.5 kilometers of bike lanes.

"In addition, people can enjoy a free Wi-Fi service along this greenway," Wang said.

However, the Global Times found Monday that the Wi-Fi could not be connected in different locations along the path.　

A staff member from the planning department of the office, who refused to give his name, said that since the operating company is still fine-tuning the Wi-Fi equipment, the service is not available now.

"Although we planned that Wi-Fi will cover everywhere along the greenway, this goal was hard to achieve, so visitors can surf the Internet for free in designated locations," the employee said.

A 70-year-old local resident of Baizhifeng, who asked for anonymity, said the greenway provides a better place for people to exercise or take a walk, but he did have reservations over the cost.

"We see many cleaners and gardeners doing maintenance every day, so I'm sure costs are not small," he said.

He also pointed out that there are not many seats or rest places along the way.

"We old people have to rest after walking for a while, so we hope they can provide more seats along the path and also install some fitness facilities," he noted.