The modifications of the Svratka riverbank in southern Brno are complete, a bike path has been created

photo: www.brnonakole.cz

Brno – Modifications to the Brno waterfront of the Svratka river in Komárov and Dolní Heršpice are nearly complete, and the construction should be approved in two weeks. A new cycle path has been created on the right bank between Sokolova and Vomáčkova streets. People will no longer need to carry their bikes across Sokolova street, as an underpass has been created under the bridge along the river. New trees are being planted to replace those that were cut down, and wetlands have been established along the riverbed, said Filip Poňuchálek, spokesperson for the municipality, to ČTK.

The primary goal of the modifications is flood protection, which is being carried out by the private investor IMOS development. This protection will also allow for construction along the river. After the approval, the city will acquire bike paths and some so-called nature-friendly measures as part of the contract.

A new cycle path has been created on the right bank, where there used to be a field path, and an underpass has been constructed under Sokolova street. Until now, cyclists using the left bank cycle path had to dismount and walk their bikes according to traffic signs, but the vast majority did not comply.

Nature-friendly measures include the widening of the river flow and the creation of wetlands. Selected grasses have been sown here, and new trees are being planted to replace those that were cut down. "If possible, the original small trees will be moved from the existing higher areas down lower," Poňuchálek stated. The cost of construction and terrain modifications is 137 million crowns.

Flood protection measures are to be gradually constructed practically all over Brno along the Svratka and Svitava rivers, as only through them is it possible to utilize a number of plots for construction. At the same time, the revitalization of the banks of both rivers is planned in certain sections so that they can be used for recreation. Next year, work is expected to begin along the Svratka from Riviéra to Uhelná. The area around Ponávka is also being revitalized.