The Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning launched the “DPT Mini Marathon 2026,” bringing over 4,200 runners to the landmark “Chonmarak Withi Bridge,” invigorating Chonburi’s economy.
On 26 April 2026, the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning officially opened the event. “DPT Mini Marathon 2026: Running to Strengthen City Builders’ Bonds.” The event kicked off officially with a refreshing sea breeze along an impressive running route on “Chonmarak Withi Bridge.” This key landmark in central Chonburi highlights the feature “Beautiful Scenic Spot” on a bridge that is more than just a road.
Mr. Pongnara Yenying, Director-General of the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning and Chair of the organizing committee, presided over the ceremony alongside Mrs. Wantana Yenying, Chairwoman of the Department’s Housewives Club. The event was honored by the attendance of Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, Governor of Chonburi Province, with his delegation.
Following the ceremony, executives jointly released professional runners, amateurs, families, and the general public—totaling more than 4,200 participants from across the country—at the multipurpose plaza of Chonmarak Withi Bridge in Mueang District, Chonburi Province. The event took place amid a fresh morning atmosphere and beautiful sea views.
Mr. Pongnara said the Department organized the DPT Mini Marathon 2026: Running to Strengthen City Builders’ Bonds for the first time, marking an important step in opening the space for citizens, runners, health enthusiasts, and urban development professionals to collectively demonstrate health, unity, and pride in building a better city for all at Chonmarak Withi Bridge, Mueang Chonburi District. The bridge is part of a coastal road project over 7 kilometers developed under Chonburi’s 2010 Comprehensive Urban Transport Plan as a proposed bypass road to solve traffic congestion.
Today, the Department has proven that this infrastructure is more than a road; it is a key landmark that significantly boosts the local economy in Chonburi and nearby areas. Hotels, accommodations, and restaurants have seen bustling bookings as over 4,200 runners and their supporters nationwide flock to the area, continuously distributing income to local communities. The bridge also promotes the image of a tourist city where runners can enjoy the beautiful seaside atmosphere, refreshing morning light, and importantly, a perfect "Beautiful Scenic Spot" check-in location that fully meets the lifestyle of the new generation.
The Governor of Chonburi added that the province is very pleased to support this event, which reflects strong cooperation among government, private sector, and civil society. Using Chonmarak Withi Bridge as the race route not only encourages people to care for their health but also elevates Chonburi’s image as a national-level sports tourism city. The beauty of this coastal running route is a valuable asset attracting tourists to return, directly contributing to local economic growth. Chonburi Province is committed to continuously supporting and promoting such creative activities to improve residents’ quality of life alongside building a strong and sustainable economy for the community.
At the event’s conclusion, the Director-General expressed that the success of this activity goes beyond promoting public health; it is a joyful space connecting people to participate creatively. The Department takes pride in developing Chonmarak Withi Bridge as an accessible space for all, supporting transportation, relaxation, exercise, and tourism. He thanked government agencies, private sector sponsors, Chonburi Province for their integrated cooperation, as well as all runners—both on-site and virtual—from across the country for contributing to an atmosphere of happiness and memorable experiences. This success clearly reflects the Department’s role in creating people-centered cities and sustainable social happiness.
The event was attended by senior executives of the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, including Mr. Pannarop Techamongkolapiwat, Mr. Kerdsak Yasothorn, Ms. Sirikul Lianganan, Ms. Suphattra Chai-thewaran, Deputy Directors-General, Department Inspectors, Mr. Yanasilp Phasrangkul, Chonburi Province’s Town and Country Planning Officer, other provincial planning officers, directors of bureaus and relevant staff, along with Chonburi Province executives including Mr. Pongsathit Pichanun, Mr. Isra Charoenchasri, Deputy Governors, the Provincial Secretary, heads of provincial departments, District Chiefs of Mueang Chonburi and Phanat Nikhom, Mr. Wittaya Kunpluem, President of Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization, and local government executives, all attending the ceremony in unity.
