The Rayong Provincial Administrative Office (PAO) is spending 70 million baht building a new pier linking the mainland to the resort island of Koh Samet.
The pier is expected to be fully open in 2025.
Rayong PAO chief, Piya Pitutecha, said a new pier is needed as the current pier is in a run-down condition. Currently, the pier is rented by a private company that operates a ferry service to the island.
After receiving 76 million baht from the Budget Bureau, Rayong PAO immediately initiated the first phase of work by demolishing wooden structures on the pier.
During the second phase, restaurants and shops will be removed from the pier area. Construction of the pier using reinforced concrete will follow in the third phase. The pier will be the province's first modern pier built according to industry standards.
Mr Piya said the pier would offer facilities for locals and tourists wanting to take ferries to Koh Samet. The pier will also host state agencies' offices, including the Marine Department's regional office, the Marine Police Division and Tourist Police.
"Work is proceeding with the second phase. Once it is completed, the pier will become Rayong's next landmark to welcome people to and from Koh Samet," he said.
Mr Piya and other Rayong officials recently visited the location of the new pier, along with tambon Ban Phae mayor Pairat Arunwessaset.