Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD) is set for major transport upgrades, with new MRT lines, extended routes, and enhanced interchange connectivity. These changes will significantly impact daily commutes, office rental demand, and accessibility across Raffles Place, Shenton Way, and Marina Bay.
Here’s your 2025-2030 guide to what’s coming—and what it means for workers, businesses, and investors.
3 Major MRT Projects Impacting the CBD
Jurong Region Line (JRL) – Phase 1 (2027)
New Stops: Tanjong Pagar (Extension) → Connects Jurong Industrial & Lakeside to CBD
Impact: Faster commutes for Western Singapore workers heading to Shenton Way
Cross Island Line (CRL) – Phase 1 (2030)
New Stops: Marina South, Shenton Way, Rochor
Impact: Direct links from Punggol, Pasir Ris, and Loyang to the CBD without transfers
Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) – Final Stage (2026)
New Stops: Maxwell, Shenton Way
Impact: Better Northern & Eastern Singapore access (Woodlands, Bayshore)
Key CBD Stations Getting Upgrades
| Station | New Lines (2025-2030) | Impact on Commutes |
| Tanjong Pagar | JRL Extension (2027) | Links Jurong (industrial workers) to CBD |
| Shenton Way | CRL (2030) + TEL (2026) | Direct access from Punggol & East Coast |
| Raffles Place | Minor upgrades (crowd control) | Even busier—expect higher foot traffic |
| Marina South | CRL (2030) | New business hub forming near MBFC |
Estimated CBD Commute Time Improvements (2030 vs. 2025)
| Route | 2025 (Today) | 2030 (With New MRT Lines) | Time Saved |
| Jurong East → Shenton Way | 35-40 mins (EWL transfer) | 25 mins (JRL direct) | ~15 mins |
| Punggol → Marina South | 50-55 mins (multiple transfers) | 35 mins (CRL direct) | ~20 mins |
| Woodlands → Raffles Place | 40 mins (NSL) | 30 mins (TEL direct) | ~10 mins |
💡 Business Takeaway: Western & Northern Singapore talent pools become more accessible to CBD employers.
How This Affects Offices & Real Estate
Rising Demand near New Stations
Shenton Way & Marina South: Expect higher rents as CRL nears completion.
Tanjong Pagar: Already popular—JRL extension could push prices up further.
Coworking & Flex Spaces Benefit
Companies may shift offices closer to new MRT lines for staff convenience.
Hotspots: Maxwell (TEL), Shenton Way (TEL + CRL), upcoming Cantonment station (CRL).
Last-Mile Connectivity Improves
More bike-sharing & walking paths around new stations.
Future Implications (Beyond 2030)
Potential CBD MRT “Loop Line” – Discussions of a dedicated inner-city rail loop to connect all CBD districts seamlessly (still in planning stages).
Autonomous shuttles – Possible self-driving buses for short CBD trips.
Final Verdict: Big Wins for Commuters & Businesses
Faster access from non-central areas (e.g., Punggol, Jurong).
Shenton Way & Marina South emerge as new premium hubs.
More hybrid offices, as workers have flexible commuting options.
Best Move Now?
If leasing office space, consider future MRT stations (Shenton Way, Marina South) before prices surge.
For employees, living near upcoming lines (JRL, CRL) could slash commute times.
Stay Updated: Check LTA’s official site for exact opening dates.
