The 32nd Chinese Architectural Golden Stone Award ceremony successfully concluded yesterday (11th). The Water Resources Bureau of the Taichung City Government earned two Golden Stone Awards, one for the Ruanpizai River Water Environment Improvement Project and another for the Fukuda Water Recycling Center, which also took home the top prize. According to the Water Resources Bureau, the city government’s ongoing efforts in improving the water environment have been recognized with these awards, which serve as acknowledgment and strong encouragement for the team to continue enhancing their work.
The Water Resources Bureau announced that the Ruanpizai River Water Environment Improvement Project was awarded the Golden Stone Award for Excellent Public Infrastructure/Excellent Space Revitalization in the Planning category. The Ruanpizai River runs through Taichung’s Fengyuan District, and the project centered on three key aspects: Water Environment, Ecological Harmony, and Safe and Livable Spaces. By blending landscape aesthetics, the project revived the long-dried river with eco-friendly stone embankments, a meandering river imagery, and an improved Interceptor sewer system. Pedestrian paths and diverse plantings were also added, showcasing a new look for the riverside through ecological engineering methods.
Director Fan Shih-yi of the Water Resources Bureau said that in the early planning stages, they encountered challenges regarding water flow regulation. They coordinated multiple times with the Central Region Water Resources Branch and the Irrigation Agency and took into account the concerns of local residents to tackle the issue of drought in the upstream areas. The project not only retains the irrigation heritage of Fengyuan and Shengang Districts but also reflects a deep cultural connection to water. The goal is for citizens to enjoy leisurely walks in the area while appreciating the distinctive beauty of the Ruanpizai River.
Additionally, the Fukuda Water Recycling Center in Taichung City won the Golden Stone Award for Excellent Public Infrastructure/Excellent Space Revitalization in the Engineering category and the Golden Stone Top Award. This center, essentially a sewage treatment plant, cleans and recycles the domestic wastewater generated each day, helping to decrease the direct flow of sewage into rivers and thus reducing pollution. In contrast to many sewage treatment plants that are typically seen as undesirable, the Fukuda Water Recycling Center is an enjoyable spot for community recreation and activities.
The Water Resources Bureau noted that the city government is taking proactive steps to revitalize the space of the Water Recycling Center by enhancing greenery and adding outdoor sports facilities, play equipment, walking paths, and cultural installations. This allows the community to experience a new perspective on the center. Besides treating domestic sewage, the center blends ideas of life aesthetics, ecological awareness, energy efficiency, carbon reduction, green energy, and environmental protection. This progressive approach seeks to alter the public’s stereotypical perceptions of sewage treatment plants and has garnered broad support and acceptance from citizens.
The Water Resources Bureau also highlighted that the Fukuda Water Recycling Center is the first water recycling center in Central Taiwan to implement reclaimed water initiatives. It has been transformed into a small urban reservoir, supplying reclaimed water to the Taichung Harbor Industrial Park, thus introducing a fresh source of water for industrial use. This center is not only a supportive presence within the city but also promotes environmental sustainability and education and functions as a catalyst for the circular economy.
The Water Resources Bureau noted that Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen highly values the development of Taichung City's water environment. She believes that water engineering encompasses more than just water management; preserving culture and history is also crucial. The Bureau thanked the evaluation committee for acknowledging the efforts of its staff and the entire design and engineering teams. Moving forward, the Water Resources Bureau will continue to promote flood safety while improving the landscape and environment of water areas, aiming to offer high-quality water environments for residents and further enhance Taichung’s reputation as a livable city.
(9/12*16)*Water Resources Bureau
Contact Person: Mr. Tsai, Water Resources Bureau, Taichung City Government
Contact Number: 04-22289111 ext. 53117