WE REFER to Ms Lovina Xie's suggestions to improve the directional signs and install artwork in the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE) tunnel (my paper, June 9).

While we agree with Ms Xie that having more signs in the KPE would be helpful, it would not be prudent to install signs directing motorists to every destination that exits lead to.

There would be an overwhelming increase in the number of signs on the expressway, which may result in greater confusion for motorists.

Thus, the signs indicate only the adjoining roads that the exits are connected to.

In the example cited by Ms Xie, motorists would be able to find signs showing "Hougang Avenue 3" and "Tampines Avenue 10" on the slip road leading to Tampines Road after they exit the tunnel.

We recognise that the KPE is a relatively new expressway.

Hence, we created the KPE web portal (www.kpeunderground.sg) to help motorists plan their routes in advance.

We agree with Ms Xie that works of art can help liven up the KPE tunnel.

We have already installed some at six locations on both bounds of the KPE.

As they depict the landmarks directly above these locations, they serve dual purposes - to decorate and to orientate.

For example, a work of art which depicts the Pelton Canal, which runs through MacPherson estate, can be found along the north-bound KPE, between the Pan-Island Expressway and MacPherson Road exits.

In installing these pieces of art, we are also mindful that they should not distract motorists, as this would compromise the level of safety in the tunnel.

They also should not compete with the more important directional signs.

Thus, the works of art are few and distinct, to ensure a balance between aesthetics and safety. We appreciate Ms Xie's feedback as it helps us in our efforts to create a more pleasant journey on our roads.

Ms Helen Lim
Deputy director
Media Relations
Land Transport Authority

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