That is correct, One factor that got it 'the less than perfectly safe ' classification was road accidents, of which Brits suffered along with others. Reckless motorcycling and minibuses have always been a danger.
The timing of the upgrade may well be ideal. although it did take some many years to put a roof on it. News outlets were not so positive barely a year ago.
https://thethaiger.com/news/national/pattayas-bali-hai-pier-project-disaster
Hell no, stupid idea marching around covered with sweat bands like a nut job..... I remember going to the park with a USA girlfriend once and she wanted to stomp around with all this gear on.... I suggested, 'Can't you folks just go for a walk!'