Opened in 1993, the Central Mid-Level Escalator in Hong Kong is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator. Running for over 2,600 feet and rising over 440 feet in elevation, the escalator was built to ease traffic congestion in the residential district. The escalators exist because Hong Kong is dominated by steep, hilly terrain, which makes it the home of several unusual methods of transportation up and down the slopes. The escalator runs downhill from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. to cater to commuters, and uphill from 10:30 a.m. to midnight. The system is equipped with 75 CCTV cameras, LED variable-message signage, and a public address system with about 200 speakers. Apart from serving as a mode of transportation, the system is also a tourist attraction and is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. The system, which cost $31 million to build, consists of 18-20 escalators and 3 covered moving walkways, serving over 85,000 people daily.
