The construction of flood protection measures in Brno on the Svratka is expected to last nearly another year

Brno - The construction of flood protection measures on the Svratka River in Brno, from Riviera to the viaduct on Uhelná Street, is expected to last almost another year. It was originally scheduled to be completed this autumn, but due to a number of issues, the completion date has been pushed to January next year. If the deadline needs to be postponed further, it would have to be approved by the Brno council, said city hall spokesperson Filip Poňuchálek to ČTK.

The construction, which has an initial budget of 1.3 billion crowns, has not only caused long-term traffic restrictions on Poříčí Street but has also brought various unexpected problems. These include the movements of road and rail bridges. Initially, construction was completely halted due to project errors. The adjustments to the riverbed and its surroundings over a more than three-kilometer stretch will protect the city from a hundred-year flood while also allowing for recreation near the river. The riverbed will have a more natural appearance than it currently does, where it is largely lined with brickwork on both sides.

This year, the relocation of water mains and sewers is expected to be completed, and flood protection walls are to be finished. One wall will be part of the planned promenade on Poříčí, while the other will be located behind the St. Elizabeth Hospice. Pathways and footbridges behind the Riviera and near the hospice are also set to be completed.

Work is currently being carried out along the entire long stretch. Sewer reconstruction is taking place between Renneska and Heršpická. The same is happening at Táborského nábřeží, where builders are tunneling. In the section near Riviera, the riverbed is being shaped and fortified, flood protection walls are being completed, and construction of bicycle paths and trails on new berms, which are terraces along the bank, is beginning.

There will also be wetlands and ponds near the former cottage settlement Favorit by Bauerova Street. There will be underpasses for cyclists under Vídeňská and Renneská streets.

The city is gradually preparing flood protection measures in other areas around the Svratka and Svitava rivers as well. Thanks to better protection against high waters, it will be possible to build on many plots, which is not currently feasible.