At the modernized Zvonařka station in Brno, only details are missing

Brno - The modernization of the Zvonařka bus station in Brno is nearing completion after a year. Only the new asphalt surface remains to be laid, and details on the railings, platforms, and the new terminal building need to be finalized. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the year, according to Antonín Grund, Chairman of the Board of ČSAD Brno-město holding. ČSAD Brno-město is the owner of the station. Grund aims to open the new terminal building around Christmas, he told CTK today.

The transformation of the station from the turn of the 1970s and 1980s has been discussed for several years, especially due to unsightly stalls.

"Thanks to the city's assistance, we managed to secure a European grant that covers about 70 percent. However, costs exceed 100 million crowns, and we had to find the remainder from our reserves, which is also why the modernization has been delayed. Moreover, we took a long time to select the contractor for the first phase, which caused approximately a year of delay," Grund explained.

The first phase of the work began last November. It primarily involved cleaning and painting the iron structure that supports the bus parking area above the departure area. As a result, the station will be significantly brighter. New lights have been added that will illuminate not only the area but also the structure, from which the light will reflect.

The second phase began this February. "It involved the actual construction work, such as the redesign and modernization of the platforms, which are now wider and accessible from the central part as well. Previously, people had to walk around the perimeter due to the long railing around the refuges. Now, there is a raised barrier-free walkway in the center that crosses the road, allowing buses to travel more slowly and making it safer. Another part is the new modern terminal building made of glass and aluminum. It will primarily serve as a waiting area. People will find information, a currency exchange, toilets, and a bistro there," Grund added.

The old terminal building will still house offices, dispatch, and security services. A new rest area for drivers will be created there. According to Grund, it will also undergo modernization in the future.

The capacity of the station will be reduced by one platform in favor of about eight new Kiss and Ride parking spaces. "We do not anticipate that this will cause any complications. On the contrary, the ability for passengers to drive into the station will be beneficial. There will also be a public parking lot for longer stays at the top. People will use the elevator to go directly to the terminal building," said Grund.

According to him, the work associated with the modernization minimally affected transport operators; however, some passengers had an unpleasant experience with the spraying on the ceilings, which was carried by strong winds.

Previously, 820 connections of regional, domestic, and international routes passed through the station on a weekday, with 17,000 to 18,000 passengers changing there daily. Currently, the number of connections has significantly decreased due to the coronavirus. Next year, a tram is expected to start operating along the adjacent Plotní Street, resulting in a new public transport stop near the station.