The cross-border road cycling event for the 15th National Games will implement rolling road closures to minimize public disruption, particularly on the North Lantau Highway connecting the airport with urban areas.
Superintendent Aubrey Siu, commander of the Force Escort Group and New Territories North Traffic Division, explained that road closures are necessary before the event for final preparations and must remain until all cyclists pass through.
The men's cross-border road cycling course spans Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao, with cyclists entering Hong Kong via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port, proceeding along San Cheong Road and the Disneyland section of North Lantau Highway before returning. The Force Escort Group will provide escort services upon the cycling team's Hong Kong entry.
Given that North Lantau Highway serves as a major artery connecting the airport with urban areas, police will implement rolling closures - maintaining normal traffic during initial stages, then clearing the course only when cyclists approach, and reopening sections behind the procession after they pass.
"Closing roads too early would create unnecessary public inconvenience, while closing too late could delay the event. Precise communication and timing are crucial," Siu noted.
The highway contains expansion joints that pose risks to narrow bicycle tires, potentially causing punctures or rider falls. Before the race, workers under police escort must install protective padding over approximately 60 expansion joints along the 55-kilometer route, requiring crane operations and 3-4 workers per installation. "We're racing against time to install padding quickly after road closures for the race, then remove it promptly for road reopening," Siu added.
For the cross-border marathon along Shenzhen Bay Bridge northbound through Shenzhen Bay Port into the Guangzhou-Shenzhen Western Corridor, preparation work must complete within 3-4 hours after border and road closures. New Territories North Traffic personnel will escort relevant workers and ensure orderly operations for course setup, emergency lane establishment, and supply station arrangements.
The golf competition at Fanling presents traffic challenges near large housing estates, hospitals, and schools. New Territories North Traffic Division has developed special traffic control measures to ensure smooth access for athletes, staff, and spectators while minimizing public impact.
