Crowds make instant connection with link

Thousands of residents trekked and cycled over the Cross Bay Link yesterday - the first steel arch bridge in Hong Kong that comes equipped with a cycle track and footpath.

As motorists tested out the new routes that promised shortened journeys, residents flocked to the bridge over Junk Bay in Tseung Kwan O with their families for a Sunday outing, with many taking selfies.

Many praised the new road for its convenience and hoped that it would improve traffic conditions in the district, which have troubled residents for years.

Tina, who lives in Lohas Park, visited the bridge with her husband and son. "I had been looking forward to the opening of the bridge," she said, adding that she left with her family at 7am to check it out.

Her husband said the new tunnel and the connecting roads are very convenient: "We can directly drive across the bay and avoid traffic jams at the old Tseung Kwan O Tunnel."

An 11-year-old boy, Yuen, who lives near Tseung Kwan O Plaza took the opportunity to cycle at the bridge.

He said biking on the new bridge was a much smoother experience than what he was used to in the area.

"Although I had to get up early, it was worth it seeing the beautiful bridge. I feel so happy!" he said.

The slight incline of the bridge posed a challenge for cyclists, however.

"There's a bit of a climb; it's quite tiring," said a boy, Wan.

However, he said it was enjoyable nonetheless and that he would make the journey over the bay once or twice a month in the future.

A man, Liu, who arrived at the bridge at 8am, said he used to cycle on the old track around the bay.

"But the Cross Bay Link is a great new addition. I will cycle on the bridge more often," he said.

A man, Lam, who lives in Lohas Park, said he carried his son to the bridge alongside his wife.

"It took us 20 minutes to make it halfway across the bridge. It would be better if my son was a bit older so he could ride his own bike," he said, adding that the bridge would be a good option for those headed to Tiu Keng Leng from Lohas Park.

A woman, Tse, another Lohas Park resident, said she cycled across the bridge.

"Being able to ride my bike on the bridge and enjoy the sea view was awesome," she said.

She added that it used to take her at least 25 minutes to get to Tiu Keng Leng station from Lohas Park, but that journey has been reduced to 10 minutes via the bridge.

"It's very convenient for Tseung Kwan O residents," she said.

However, she also said she was worried that the beautiful sea view would be affected by the reclamation plan.

"You spend half your life working and the other half paying off your mortgage just so you can live comfortably. Reclamation isn't just going to affect the view. It'll also affect the residents."