A road connecting downtown George Town and Ayer Itam to the west has existed since the 19th century.[1][2] This road facilitated the transportation of local agricultural produce, including nutmeg and pepper, from the interior estates to the settlement's harbour.[3]
By 1900, a tram line along the road became operational.[4][5] In the 1930s, the road was widened and street lighting was installed by 1938.[6][7]
Ayer Itam Road experiences significant congestion, especially during rush hours, attributed to the increase in car ownership.[8] In response, the Penang state government has planned several infrastructural upgrades to reduce traffic congestion along this corridor. These include the construction of expressways and a monorail line as part of the Penang Transport Master Plan.[9][10]
