Prague approved the transformation of the boulevard, it will adjust parks and streets

Prague - Parks and surrounding streets will be adjusted around Prague's north-south artery, pedestrian crossings will be created, and access to state buildings and institutions will be improved. This follows from the concept of transforming the artery between the Nusle and Hlávka bridges, which was approved by Prague city councillors today. The Institute of Planning and Development (IPR) is to develop a schedule for the individual adjustments. The concept of transforming the artery was developed by IPR in collaboration with the Danish architectural firm Gehl Architects.

"The artery is primarily a barrier that separates the different parts of the city. People who are not driving try to avoid it. We want to change that. The first step towards transforming it into an urban boulevard should be the adjustment of parks, streets, and squares that are adjacent to it. There should also be several new pedestrian crossings," said Deputy Mayor Petra Kolínská (SZ/Trojkoalice).

Currently, no restrictions on traffic on the artery are planned. "At this moment, drivers should not fear any radical changes that would reduce the capacity of the artery. We have phased the changes from immediate adjustments to changes over several decades. Now we will try to implement minor measures, such as new crossings or a navigation system, and see how they perform," stated IPR Director Ondřej Boháč.

The concept focuses on three areas. The first is the environment, where, for example, parks and spaces around public buildings should be cultivated. In the second area, architects focused on people. This means improving spaces where people can linger, such as by placing new benches or supporting the establishment of shops. In the third area, transportation, other modes of transport should appear on the artery alongside cars, whether bicycles or public transport. Traffic lights are to be better adjusted.

Architect Jan Gehl is renowned as an expert on public space. He advises metropolises around the world on how to create pleasant urban spaces for people. His services have been utilized by London, Vienna, Copenhagen, Oslo, Moscow, and New York.

Dozens of thousands of cars pass through the north-south artery daily. The route connects Prague 4 with Prague 7 and runs through the city center. Construction began in the 1970s.