Wenceslas Square Transformation: Prague's Ambitious Urban Development Project Set to Begin in June 2024

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is gearing up for a major urban development project that will transform its iconic Wenceslas Square. The project, which is set to begin on June 29, 2024, will see the return of tram service to the upper part of the square, along with a host of other infrastructure improvements. The construction is expected to last three years and will result in a temporary closure of the Jindřišská-Vodičkova tram section for three months during the initial phase.

The scope of the project includes the construction of new tram tracks that will connect to existing lines, as well as road and sidewalk reconstructions, utility re-routing, and modifications to subway vestibule ceilings. The new tram tracks will follow the sides of Wenceslas Square, creating a pedestrian promenade in the middle with widened sidewalks, a dedicated cycling lane, and other improvements. The project aims to enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors alike, making the square more accessible and pedestrian-friendly.

In addition to the Wenceslas Square transformation, Prague is also facing a significant challenge with skyrocketing apartment prices, which are impacting even the middle class. To address this issue, the Prague Development Company plans to build up to 8,000 new apartments within the next 10 years. The city has the space for up to 80,000 new apartments by revising spatial planning regulations, which could help alleviate the housing crisis.

The article also discusses several other key developments in the Czech Republic, including a proposal for a minimum gross decent wage, the arrival of whooping cough vaccines from Canada, and Prague Airport's operating profit in 2023 despite a decrease in passenger numbers compared to 2019. Additionally, the Czech government has urged its citizens to avoid travel to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation in the region.

The upcoming 2024 Prague Bike Fest, a two-day cycling event featuring adrenaline shows, exhibitions, workshops, and bike testing, is also mentioned in the article. This event is expected to attract cycling enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.

Tourism in Prague has seen a significant increase in the third quarter of 2024, with 1.84 million tourists visiting the city, up 800,000 from the previous year. However, the numbers are still below the pre-COVID level of 2.3 million in 2019. The number of foreign tourists increased by 130% year-on-year, while domestic guests decreased by 5%. Tourists spent a total of 4.26 million nights in the capital, up 1.9 million from the previous year.

The article concludes by mentioning the start of production for the John Wick spinoff movie 'Ballerina' in Prague, with filming taking place in the city center and at various locations. This development is expected to bring further attention to the city and its thriving film industry.

As Prague embarks on this ambitious urban development project and continues to attract tourists and filmmakers alike, the city is positioned for a transformative period in its history. The Wenceslas Square transformation, along with the efforts to address the housing crisis and promote cycling culture, showcase Prague's commitment to creating a more livable and sustainable urban environment for its residents and visitors.

Key Takeaways

• Prague to transform Wenceslas Square with new tram, infrastructure
• Prague plans 8,000 new apartments to address housing crisis
• Czech govt urges citizens to avoid travel to Iran due to security
• Prague tourism up 800,000 visitors in Q3 2024 vs. previous year
• John Wick spinoff 'Ballerina' to be filmed in Prague's city center