TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) released a six-year policy report on Wednesday at the Taichung City Hall Square.
Several facilities are set to open in Taichung next year, including the International Convention and Exhibition Center in Wuri District, the Taichung Green Museumbrary in Xitun District, and central Taiwan's first large aquarium in Qingshui District. Construction of the Taichung MRT Blue Line will also begin next year, per the city government’s news release.
Taichung Dome's construction is expected to be completed in 2030, becoming the second-largest dome in Taiwan, per UDN.
Taichung City Government will provide pregnant women with transportation subsidies of up to NT$6,000 (US$186) next year, Lu said. The city government will also offer subsidies ranging from NT$8,000 to NT$50,000 for egg and sperm freezing for individuals with fertility issues.
Lu said Taichung has topped economic indicators among Taiwan's six largest cities for the 14th consecutive quarter. She credited the city's economic success to attracting tech companies such as TSMC and Micron to establish manufacturing facilities.
Lu said Taichung's public childcare center number has increased from five to 45. She also said the city expects 10,000 social housing units to support young couples.
Lu said the city government is working to improve safety and reduce crime. Taichung conducted 83,000 food safety inspections last year, the highest number in Taiwan.
Lu added that city events, including the Taichung Shopping Festival and the Hot Air Balloon Carnival in Shengang District, are popular with tourists.
Lu emphasized that Taichung's population has surpassed 2.86 million, making it not only Taiwan's second-largest city but a livable one.
