Pattaya: Bali Hai Pier walkway roof finally taking shape

Pattaya’s ambitious project to build a 310-metre roof over the Bali Hai Pier walkway is finally approaching completion but not without drama. Initially set to finish in March, the 8.8-million-baht project hit a series of delays, leading to hefty fines for the contractor.

The roof, designed to protect residents and tourists from the relentless sun and sudden downpours, has been a much-anticipated upgrade.

“This will transform the pier experience,” an official remarked.

However, missed deadlines caused frustration, with fines racking up for every day the project ran late.

Currently, the roof construction is progressing more smoothly, with the installation of ceiling panels and a modern lighting system underway. The project is being carried out in organised sections, with each 100-metre stretch of the walkway tackled one at a time.

“The new wave-like design captures the spirit of the seaside,” another official said, as the roof structure is designed to blend beautifully with its surroundings. To stay within budget, the builders swapped stainless steel for cost-effective galvanised steel.

Despite the bumpy start, officials are optimistic. If all goes to plan, the pier will boast its new protective cover in just two months. Local officials are hopeful that no further issues arise.

Pattaya residents and visitors are now eagerly awaiting the final reveal of this long-overdue improvement, with many hopeful it will enhance their pier experience just in time for the high season, reported Pattaya Mail.

In related news, Bali Hai Pier has finally received a much-needed makeover after years of chaotic operations and tourist headaches. Serving more than 10,000 visitors daily, the pier has long been plagued by fierce disputes over parking, along with pushy vendors aggressively promoting overpriced speedboat rides.

The newly introduced system, which quietly went into effect on September 16, aims to bring a sense of calm to South Pattaya’s primary transit hub.