Singapore's minister for trade and industry Lim Hng Kiang has launched the construction of the Alexandra Link, part of a scheme to improve access to the Southern Ridges and enhance the area as a recreational destination. Alexandra Link is inspired by the mile-a-minute plant and comprises a 1.6km elevated walkway with an 80m-long bridge. The overall scheme includes a series of pedestrian links to connect the 9km chain of South Ridges, comprising Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge. Designs for Alexandra Link and another bridge, Henderson Crossing, were chosen following an international design competition launched in 2003, which drew 65 entries. Construction of the 270m-long Henderson Crossing is also set to start this year.