Traditional Market Transformation: A Waste of Public Funds or Essential Urban Evolution?

傳統市場轉型：浪費市民錢？

還是必要的都市進化？

In recent years, Taipei City's traditional market renovation projects have sparked considerable debate. Many traditional vendors are dissatisfied with the planning and outcomes of the new markets, while some citizens complain about the inconvenient distances, deeming these projects a "trouble-making machine" that squanders taxpayer money. However, is the transformation of traditional markets truly a waste of public funds? Or is it an indispensable part of urban evolution?

近年來，台北市的傳統市場改建計畫頻頻引發討論。許多傳統攤商對新市場的規劃與結果感到不滿，部分市民也抱怨新市場距離過遠，認為這是勞民傷財的「麻煩製造機」。然而，傳統市場的轉型真的是在浪費納稅人的錢嗎？抑或是城市發展中不可或缺的一環？

The necessity of market renovation is undeniable. From fundamental improvements in hygiene, ample parking, and proper refrigeration facilities, to rain shelters and accessible pathways, these enhancements are all designed to provide citizens with a superior and more comfortable shopping environment. Simultaneously, these changes effectively mitigate potential risks associated with the unsanitary conditions often found in older traditional markets. Furthermore, relocating markets away from residential areas helps to prevent the disruption caused by early morning preparations, reducing disturbances for nearby residents.

市場改建的必要性不言而喻。從基礎的衛生環境、充足的停車空間、完善的冷藏設備，到遮雨設施、無障礙通道等便民服務，這些改善措施無一不是為了提供市民更優質、更舒適的購物環境。同時，這也能有效降低傳統市場因環境髒亂而帶來的潛在風險。此外，將市場遷離住宅區，也能避免傳統市場凌晨備貨的喧囂聲，減少對周邊居民作息的干擾。

A well-crafted urban plan demands significant time and budget, and naturally embodies the planners' earnest desire to meet diverse needs. However, satisfying everyone is almost an impossible task. Taking Taipei City's Huannan Market in Wanhua District as an example, to ensure more effective market operations, a self-governing committee was established. This committee constantly discusses and seeks improvement solutions with various vendors on different issues. I had the privilege of attending several meetings and was deeply moved by the dedication and hard work I witnessed.

一個完善的都市計畫需要投入大量的時間與預算，當然也承載著規劃者們希望滿足各方需求的用心。然而，要讓每個人都感到滿意，幾乎是不可能的任務。以台北市萬華區的環南市場為例，為了更完善地經營新市場，市場成立了自治會，針對不同的項目與各方廠商不斷地討論並尋求改善方案。我有幸參與了幾次會議，親眼目睹了大家為此付出的努力與認真，深受感動。

環南綜合市場 Huannan Market, Taipei.

After several visits to the Huannan Comprehensive Market, the current traditional market is far more convenient than before! The centralized classification of stalls, clear area signage, a food court with seating, clean restrooms, comfortable air conditioning, elevators, escalators, and other accessible facilities, as well as convenient parking, all make me feel more at ease and comfortable, wanting to continue browsing and shopping.

幾次走訪環南綜合市場，真的覺得現在的傳統市場比之前便利太多了！攤位的集中分類、清晰的區域標示、美食街座位區、乾淨的洗手間、舒適的空調設備、電梯、手扶梯及其他無障礙設施，還有方便的停車場，這些都讓我更自在、更舒服地想繼續逛、繼續買。

When facing change, we cannot always remain fixated on how traditional markets "should" look based on the past. We used to stroll the streets for shopping, but now we take our families to department stores, isn't it precisely for that sense of love and convenience? We don't want our families exposed to wind and rain; instead, we desire a single space that can fulfill all our needs. This is precisely the guarantee of sustainable urban development.

面對改變，我們不能總是停留在過去傳統市場應該有的樣子。過去我們習慣在路上逛街，現在我們帶著家人去百貨公司，不就是為了追求那份愛與便利嗎？我們不希望家人吹風淋雨，而是期待一個空間能滿足所有需求。這正是都市永續發展的保障。

The sustainable development of a city is far more than just a slogan. It fundamentally requires everyone to embrace change with a positive attitude, rather than merely complaining because things are different from the past. Only when we actively propose ways to improve, rather than just complaining in place, can our city gradually approach its ideal form. Standing still and complaining solves nothing.

一個城市的永續發展絕不只是口號。它實質上要求每個人都能以正向的態度看待改變，而非僅僅因為與過去不同就心生抱怨。當我們都能積極地提出如何做得更好，而非僅是原地抱怨，我們的城市才能一步步接近理想的樣貌。停滯不前並不能解決問題。

Market renovation projects are not merely isolated constructions; they are an integral part of a broader vision for the city's future development. Let us view these changes from a more macro perspective and collectively contribute to the sustainable development of Taipei City.

市場改建計畫不僅僅是單一的建設，它更是城市未來發展的廣闊視野中不可或缺的一環。讓我們用更宏觀的角度看待這些改變，共同為台北市的永續發展貢獻一份心力。