As the second stop from the end of the East-West MRT Line, Singaporeans often might think that Tampines is ulu (i.e., far from everything). However, Tampines features excellent connectivity thanks to its MRT stations, bus interchange and cycling network. Driving to and from the area is also easy via major roads and expressways.
The town’s good connectivity will be improved further as the Tampines MRT station in Tampines Town Centre will be part of a highly-anticipated Integrated Transport Hub (ITH). Under the URA Master Plan, the Tampines interchange will be transformed into an ITH that’s linked to the $500 million Our Tampines Hub following the completion of DTL3 in 2017.
ITH are fully air-conditioned facilities that connect MRT stations and bus interchanges with commercial spaces like shopping malls. This leads to greater convenience as commuters can easily pick up what they need from stores before getting on trains and buses to get to their destinations.
Transportation options in Tampines
Residents and visitors in Tampines are spoilt for choice when it comes to connectivity. In fact, two rail lines pass through the town – the East-West and Downtown lines. Aside from the existing Tampines MRT interchange, the new stations consist of Tampines West MRT station and Tampines East MRT station.
As such, commuters can easily travel to areas like Bencoolen, River Valley and Marina Bay within minutes.
MRT stations in Tampines
Aside from that, the commuter-friendly town is served by two bus interchanges, namely the Tampines bus interchange and Tampines Concourse bus interchange. Built in 1987, the Tampines bus interchange is linked to Our Tampines Hub and caters to about 25 bus routes. Tampines Concourse bus interchange opened in 2016 and is located 300m from Tampines bus interchange, serving four bus routes.
Search for properties for sale near future MRT stations.
Bus interchanges in Tampines
In 2017, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced that the cycling network in Tampines will grow from 6.9km to around 21km, connecting the town’s MRT stations to schools, residences and other amenities. The network will also be linked to the neighbouring towns of Simei and Pasir Ris, as well as to Changi Business Park and the Singapore Expo Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Get the Guru View
Despite the connectivity, Tampines is still relatively far from the city centre. For those looking at rental values now, this might be detrimental in attracting expats. However, with decentralised CBDs, new industrial sites etc., transport within Tampines and to the surrounding areas will become more important, and hence will lead to growth in home values maybe in five to 10 years from now. As for those who work or study in the East, they will be drawn to the area’s greater connectivity and shorter travel times.
