Ulsan Metro Line 1 (Tram) construction project is finally underway.

On the 10th, the Ulsan Metropolitan Government announced that it has obtained approval for the Metro Line 1 (Tram) basic plan from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport.

Tram line 1 is a project involving the construction of a 10.85 km tram line with 15 stations from Taehwagang Station to Shinbok Intersection operating eco-friendly wireless hydrogen trams in Ulsan, which is currently the only metropolitan city without a city railway.

The project cost is estimated at KRW 381.4 billion and is expected to open in 2029, following the commencement of construction next year.

Double-track tram rails will be installed in key streets such as Samsan-ro, Munsu-ro, and Daehak-ro, and will operate every 10 minutes during peak commuting hours and 15 minutes during other times by deploying 9 vehicles.

Ulsan had listened to the public hearing in the first half of the year and considered the opinions of the city council regarding the approval of the basic plan. Subsequently, in August of the same year, Ulsan submitted a request for approval to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

Additionally, to minimize traffic problems due to tram construction, a “Preemptive transport system efficiency contract” was executed to discuss with traffic experts and police for improving the Gongeoptap Rotary system and vehicle lane operation plan. etc. In-depth analysis and review will be carried out during future design processes.

The city is planning to announce bids in the design and construction collective bidding* method during March to minimize the construction period, efficiently manage the construction, and secure stable quality.

Along with selecting the business, the design is to be carried out until the end of this year, with construction starting next year after receiving approval of the business plan from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport.

Once the trams are completed in 2029, it is assessed to take about 28 minutes one-way from Tawhwagang Station to Shinbok, securing itself as a quick and convenient mean of commute during rush hours.

“Inconveniences in traffic are expected due to construction on key main roads following the introduction of Ulsan's first tram. We hope for your interest and understanding with the expectation of convenient public transit after opening as we will consider the safety of citizens and minimize inconvenience during construction,” a city official said.

On the other hand, administrative capabilities will be focused on the selection of line 2 that will connect south to north from North Ulsan Station to Yaeum Sageori by making another attempt to be selected for this year's preliminary feasibility study.