[Kaohsiung News]
The Transportation Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government has partnered with Kaohsiung’s beloved mascot “Kaohsiung Bear” and the TSG Hawks to launch a new traffic safety campaign using pedestrian signal Variable Message Signs (VMS). Beginning on Lunar New Year’s Eve 2025, additional VMS units have been installed around Love River Bay, Sinkujiang, and World Games Blvd. Featuring charming and engaging slogans and animations, the initiative aims to enhance public awareness of pedestrian safety while bringing a heartwarming atmosphere to the city.
The integration of VMS with pedestrian signals is designed to make effective use of pedestrian wait time during red lights. Through animated and lively safety messages displayed on screen, the system encourages pedestrians to comply with traffic regulations, thereby enhancing their safety awareness and promoting secure pedestrian behavior.
A total of 40 VMS units have been installed at key intersections along Haibian Road, Wufu Road, Gongyuan Road, Cisian Road, Jhongshan Road, and World Games Blvd. During red lights, the screens display a series of safety-themed messages such as: “Keep your head up while crossing—walk safe!”, “Leave happy, return safely!”, “Obey traffic rules—who else but me?”, “Stop at red lights, follow the rules, and stay safe!”, and “In 2025, the Auspicious Snake brings blessings—walk with serpent spirit!” These brief yet impactful messages aim to raise safety consciousness during the short waiting period and help reduce pedestrian-related accidents.
According to the Transportation Bureau, to further enhance the campaign’s reach, additional installations at high-foot-traffic areas will be considered. The Bureau also urges pedestrians to “look both ways and check for oncoming traffic” when crossing intersections, and to establish proper eye contact with drivers to ensure they have been seen before proceeding. Only through such mindfulness can the goal of “leaving home happily and returning safely” truly be achieved.
(Contact Office: Director Hsu Nai-wen, Smart Transportation Center, 0932-880839)
