A City Manager’s Look at Singapore’s Urban Success
I visited Singapore last month, and as a former county and city manager, I couldn’t help but be impressed with the blueprint this city offers for modern city management.
Singapore is a 287 square mile city state and island country located at the end of the Malayan Peninsula. It is a global business and shipping hub, and it is widely recognized for long term planning, efficient infrastructure, and intentional urban design. Given its small size, that planning discipline is critical.
It is also ranked among the most livable cities in Asia, and its emphasis on greenery in public spaces is remarkable. Some of my observations while visiting included the following.
Zero Litter
Litter laws are strict in Singapore. Large fines and court costs are associated with littering, and subsequent offenses can result in prison time.
Zero Graffiti
Graffiti is considered vandalism and is punishable for a first offense by a fine and possible prison time. Second and subsequent offenses may include mandatory corporal punishment, additional fines, and prison time.
World Class Transportation
When thinking about the cleanliness of the bus, train, and subway systems in Singapore, I would compare them to a Buc-ee’s bathroom in Texas. In addition to the cleanliness, the system was efficient and user friendly.
The city uses data from riders’ transit cards to optimize bus and subway routes, and it shows. I would love to see more data on how these systems have contributed to reductions in congestion and carbon emissions.
Traffic Management
In spite of the large population and the amount of daily movement, traffic congestion was not what I expected.
Singapore has implemented a Smart Traffic Management System that uses advanced technologies to optimize traffic flow. The system collects real time data from multiple sources, including road sensors and traffic cameras, to manage traffic conditions.
They also use Electronic Road Pricing, which charges drivers for using certain roads during peak hours. This encourages drivers to travel at off peak times or use alternative routes. Singapore also uses Intelligent Transport Systems that integrate data from multiple sources to strengthen traffic management, improve system performance, and relieve congestion.
Housing
Over 90% of Singaporeans own their own home, which is one of the highest home ownership rates in the world.
The government treats home ownership as a key piece of social stability, financial security, and national identity. They offer Housing & Development Board, HDB, flats, or public housing. I was able to get a firsthand look at some of these places. They are modest but nice.
The statistic that really stood out to me was that approximately 80% of home ownership is accomplished through the purchase of an HDB flat. Erecting these flats was the government’s way of addressing a severe housing shortage in the 1960s.
These flats are designed as self sufficient communities, with local amenities such as community centers and childcare centers. This reduces the need to travel and lowers the community’s carbon footprint. In my view, it also clearly helps create a sense of Singaporean identity.
Successful Urban Planning
Singapore’s strategic location and global integration demand strong urban planning.
They use a 50 year long term plan to guide land use. They appear to efficiently utilize every square mile, with connected neighborhoods and strategically located commercial and industrial zones that minimize travel and maximize effectiveness.
They also appear to regularly review trends and data to meet changing demands related to technology, demographics, and the environment.
I would go back to Singapore just to spend time in their planning departments and better understand how they have been able to plan so well. Spending less than five days there did not allow enough time for that.
Immigration
Based on my experience entering the country, Singapore’s immigration system appeared to be highly regulated and selective. Their immigration laws seemed strict, yet efficient.
The system appears structured to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, while offering relatively few paths to citizenship. Many expatriates live and work in Singapore under business visas or work permits.
Closing Thoughts
Singapore appears to operate in a very data driven manner, and there is plenty of visible evidence that the approach is working.
I would recommend that any city executive interested in direct inspiration and practical ideas visit the Lion City.
