Bangkok Invests 320 Million Baht in Old City Bus and Walkway Upgrades

The Provincial Assembly passed the Local Infrastructure Investment Act on July 3, directing 320 million baht to bus route extensions and pedestrian infrastructure inside Old City Bkk. The changes apply to the 45,000 daily commuters who use routes through the historic district.

Legislators moved the measure forward after transport records showed rising foot traffic near temples and markets since January. The legislation states that the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority must complete the first set of walkway covers before October, using existing district maintenance crews rather than new contractors.

Effects on Daily Routes

Residents who travel from homes near the Grand Palace to jobs at the Banglamphu market will see two additional bus stops added along Phra Athit Road. The act also requires covered walkways on the section of Ratchadamnoen Road between the Democracy Monument and the river pier, cutting exposure to afternoon rain for people carrying goods to and from stalls.

The budget paper attached to the bill lists 15 new sheltered stops and 2.8 kilometres of raised footpaths. Local advocates note that these additions target the twelve thousand households inside the old city boundary who currently walk or take short bus hops rather than private vehicles.

Next Implementation Steps

Construction crews will begin work on the first walkway segment by July 28, according to the transport department schedule released with the legislation. Full operation of the extended bus lines is projected to start in October, with monthly progress reports posted at district offices and on the authority website.

Policy analysts say residents can follow exact stop locations and detour notices through the same public channels used for past road repairs in the area. The act requires the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority to publish updated route maps at least two weeks before service changes take effect.