Mapo-gu, Pedestrian Overpass in Front of Jungdong Elementary School Demolished

Creating a Pedestrian-Centered Road Environment by Demolishing Over 30-Year-Old Aged Pedestrian Overpass
Road Maintenance Around Demolished Overpass for Safe Commute of Jungdong Elementary Students
Park Gang-su, Mapo District Mayor, “Will Carefully Monitor Road Sites to Ensure 365 Days of Reliable Safety in Mapo”

The pedestrian overpass after demolition

Mapo-gu (Mayor Park Gang-su) announced that it finally completed the demolition of the pedestrian overpass in front of Seoul Jungdong Elementary School on December 29 last year, a project that had been a long-standing demand of residents for 10 years, creating a pedestrian-centered road environment.

The pedestrian overpass in front of Jungdong Elementary School, measuring 4 meters in width and 22.9 meters in length, was installed in 1989. After more than 30 years, it had become aged, posing safety risks and increasing maintenance costs day by day.

Additionally, complaints had been continuously raised requesting the demolition of the overpass and installation of a crosswalk due to inconvenience for children, people with disabilities, and the elderly who found it difficult to climb the stairs, as well as decreased usage by residents.

When a crosswalk was newly installed at the intersection in front of Jungdong Elementary School in October 2022, Mapo-gu conducted a survey among school officials, parents, and nearby residents to gather opinions on whether to keep or remove the pedestrian overpass.

As the majority supported the demolition of the overpass in the survey, Mapo-gu began construction on December 26, 2023, and completed the demolition on December 29.

Resident Lee from Seongsan-dong said, “The old overpass had no elevator, so it was difficult to cross with a stroller, and the pillars supporting the overpass made walking on the sidewalk uncomfortable. After the demolition, the view opened up and walking became easier, so I am very satisfied.”

Mapo-gu’s efforts for the safety and convenience of residents did not stop at demolishing the overpass. Since Jungdong Elementary School is located near the demolished overpass, Mapo-gu plans to fully renovate the surrounding sidewalks by February 2024 to create a safe commuting environment for students.

Park Gang-su, Mayor of Mapo-gu, said, “To create a ‘Safe Mapo 365 days a year,’ we have been regularly inspecting road facilities such as bridges, retaining walls, and underpasses in the area,” adding, “Mapo-gu will carefully monitor and maintain road sites to ensure a safe and pleasant walking environment for residents.”

Pedestrian overpass under demolition