In a bid to expand green areas within urban communities, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has unveiled the “Suan 50 Suk” public park located at Soi Sukhumvit 50 in the Klong Toey district. This 13-rai park, situated beneath the Chaloem Maha Nakhon Expressway, emerged from a collaborative effort between the BMA, PTT Global Chemical Group, and Ichitan Group commencing from Feb 22.
Deputy Governor Chakkaphan Phewngam shared with the Bangkok Post that the park originated from an abandoned plot identified by the Klong Toey District Office, proposed to the BMA for park development. Through deliberations with key stakeholders such as the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), local entities, and participating companies, the decision to transform the vacant space into a park materialized, with its name “Suan 50 Suk” symbolizing happiness in the vicinity of Soi Sukhumvit 50.
Suan 50 Suk Park offers a variety of amenities including a running track, recreational zones, space for art displays, a pet-friendly area, and facilities for school events like camping. Emphasizing environmental stewardship, BMA and its partners have planted approximately 1,000 trees comprising silver trumpet, Indian rose chestnut, and mahogany trees, complemented by waste segregation facilities to promote recycling and proper disposal practices.
Operating from 5 am to 8 pm daily with round-the-clock security, the park draws visitors post-work hours and during weekends, attracting an average of 20 visitors per day. Efforts are underway to increase awareness and utilization of the park among the community.
Local residents like Kitti Daeng-on and Sakunrat Tongthongkum appreciate the park’s presence as a recreational oasis near their homes, providing a green retreat for various age groups. “Suan 50 Suk” Park forms part of Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s broader eco-friendly agenda, aiming to establish accessible green spaces like the “15-minute parks” initiative, reflecting a commitment to converting underutilized spaces into vibrant public amenities for all residents. With a goal to inaugurate 500 parks by 2026, the BMA has already introduced around 130 public parks under this green campaign led by Mr. Chakkaphan.
