<M.Boleslav> and <Mělník> are preparing the restoration of historical centers

Mladá Boleslav/Mělník - Mladá Boleslav and Mělník are preparing extensive reconstructions of public spaces in their historic centers. In Mělník, they have already incorporated residents' comments into the proposed modifications and are preparing to present it to the council and city assembly. Mladá Boleslav has been planning the reconstruction of Old Town Square for a long time and would like to dedicate next year to project preparation. This was stated to ČTK by representatives of the leadership of both cities.
    In Mělník, a significant transformation is planned for Míru Square, Karl IV. Square, and Svatováclavská Street. Very rough estimates of the costs for these investments range in the tens to hundreds of millions of crowns. The city hall wants to utilize new EU fund programs for financing these modifications. "If everything goes according to schedule, we should be ready to apply for financial co-participation from EU funds in March 2007," said Tomáš Martinec, the euro manager of the Mělník city hall, to ČTK. The planned modifications aim to change the surfaces of the squares, reduce the number of parking spaces, increase the share of greenery, and improve conditions for pedestrian tourists.
    The most feedback from the public was directed towards the planned transformation of Karl IV. Square, with frequent complaints about the intended reduction of parking spaces and excessive use of concrete paving. According to Martinec, designers have incorporated more than 70 percent of the comments into the proposals. Experts also suggest reopening the well at Míru Square.
    In Mladá Boleslav, preparations for the reconstruction of Old Town Square in the historic center, near the castle complex, have been underway for a long time. The city hall already has the winning architectural design available. According to Deputy Mayor Robin Povšík, the goal of these changes is to reduce the number of parked cars in the square, increase the share of greenery, and create better conditions for relaxation for people who currently just pass through. Concurrently, according to Povšík, it is necessary to prepare the construction of a parking garage at the nearby Komenského Square to offer an alternative for the canceled parking spaces. The total costs for the transformation of the square, including the construction of the parking facility, are estimated by Povšík to be about 250 million crowns.
    According to Povšík, it is necessary for the city hall to prepare projects and also applications for grants from EU funds next year. The renovation of the square is among the ten investment priorities that the city aims to secure with the help of European grants in the coming years.