Thailand’s Expressway Authority has finalized public discussions on the proposed 5.9-kilometer expressway link to Koh Chang, paving the way for full environmental, technical, and design assessments to be completed by the end of 2025.
The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has concluded consultations with local stakeholders in Trat Province regarding the selected alignment for a new expressway connecting the mainland to Koh Chang. The chosen route, known as Alternative 3, was affirmed following a third round of meetings addressing public feedback and environmental concerns.
This infrastructure project, spanning 5.9 kilometers, will run from the mainland’s Khlong Yai district across the sea to Koh Chang district, incorporating elevated sections to avoid disrupting residential areas, shipping lanes, and marine ecosystems. The alignment begins at Highway Tr.4006 and crosses agricultural land before heading offshore near a local fishing pier. On Koh Chang, it terminates near Ban Dan Mai in a low-density residential and recreational area.
The proposed route will feature both land-based and marine structures. On land, a four-lane divided road with safety barriers is planned. Over water, the design includes a combination of box girder bridges, extradosed bridges, and balanced cantilever structures to accommodate ship traffic and minimize ecological impact, particularly around coral reef zones.
Initial surveys and design work are expected to conclude by late 2025, with official project approval targeted for 2026–2027. Construction is set to begin in 2029, with the expressway scheduled to open to traffic in 2033. The total budget for the project is estimated at 15 billion baht.
The decision followed a field visit and detailed review by EXAT and project consultants. While earlier meetings revealed some local opposition, the final consultation showed general consensus. Various local authorities and public stakeholders participated in the process.
