CHIANG RAI – The Mayor of Chiang Rai City, Mr. Wanchai Jongsuththanamanee, along with city executives, council members, municipal staff, and residents, is moving forward with steady city development with the simple focus of a better quality of life, care for the environment, and a city that supports learning.
Currently, they are preparing to develop “Chiang Rai Lantern Park” into a central city park that meets the needs of people of all ages.
One key project on the list is the upgrade of Lantern Park and Suan Tung Chiang Rai, intending to turn it into a central public park that works for people of all ages.
Children, teens, students, families, and seniors use the park often, making it an important green space for daily city life. The municipality plans to improve how the space is used and extend opening hours from early morning into the evening. This supports exercise, relaxation, learning activities, and community events, all in one place.
The park upgrade will bring together environmental care, attractive landscaping, and health-focused design. Plans include adding more trees and shade, and improving the natural feel of the park.
The design work is supported by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kan Silprasit from Srinakharinwirot University, as part of a project focused on growing ornamental plants to add value and help reduce PM2.5 dust pollution.
The project is led by Dr. Anan Piriyaphatrakit from the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR). Together, they aim to develop the park as a model “nature therapy” public space, with cleaner air in the middle of the city.
The city also plans to set up exercise equipment and activity zones that fit different age groups, including kids, youth, and older adults. This matches Chiang Rai’s direction toward becoming both a Sport City and a Garden City, where outdoor life feels safe, balanced, and easy to enjoy.
Upgrading Chiang Rai Lantern Park is more than a park makeover. It’s part of a larger quality-of-life plan, giving residents a welcoming place to be active, breathe easier, and spend time together, while building a more livable Chiang Rai for the long run.
