The municipality announced that access will be restricted while crews carry out road resurfacing, drainage works and new footpath construction around the popular lake.
In a video released today (July 14), Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) President Rewat Areerob and Rawai Mayor Thames Kraitat outlined the joint redevelopment project, which they said aims to transform Nai Harn Lake into a premier recreation and tourism destination.
Mr Rewat said the PPAO is constructing a jogging track and cycling lane around the lake to provide residents with improved facilities for exercise and outdoor activities.
Rawai Municipality is separately investing B70 million to rebuild roads, install new drainage canals and an HDPE drainage pipe system to reduce flooding, Mr Thames said.
The project also includes new footpaths, landscaping, upgraded lighting, seating and designated parking areas for cars, motorcycles and bicycles. One section bordering the lake will not be rebuilt because it falls under the jurisdiction of the Highways Department.
Mr Thames said the municipality had coordinated its construction schedule with the PPAO so both projects could be completed at roughly the same time, minimising disruption by limiting the area to a single extended construction period.
Both projects are scheduled for completion by Mar 30, 2027.
Mr Rewat acknowledged that traffic delays and inconvenience were unavoidable during construction, but said the completed redevelopment would provide long-term benefits by creating a safer public space, encouraging healthier lifestyles and boosting tourism.
The announcement comes more than a year after the previous Nai Harn Lake redevelopment stalled when the original contractor abandoned the project, prompting public criticism and political scrutiny.
The earlier B66.6-million contract was terminated in April last year after work stopped shortly after construction began. The PPAO subsequently re-tendered the project with a higher budget and pledged to appoint a contractor capable of completing the long-delayed works.