A wide traffic-light pedestrian crossing is planned for the Prague arterial highway directly in front of the historic Fanta Building, paired with the addition of bicycle lanes. According to Jaromír Beránek, the first deputy mayor of Prague for transport, these changes tie into the ongoing reconstruction of the main railway station’s concourse and are scheduled for completion in 2028.
Did You Know? Pedestrians have been unable to cross the busy highway directly in front of the Prague main railway station for decades, relying instead on underground subways, elevators, or historical spiral staircases.
Reconstruction Work and Traffic Restrictions
The first stage of the project began on July 13, 2026, immediately following a partial signaling equipment overhaul and partial repairs on C-line metro route. According to the Railway Administration (Správa železnic), which acts as the project investor rather than the city magistracy, the initial construction phase is slated to last 126 days and wrap up by mid-November 2026. During this period, traffic on the magistrála is restricted to two lanes in each direction. Work during this phase focuses primarily on repairing and replacing the roof hydroisolation of the newer station concourse built in the 1970s.
Future Transit Plans and Pedestrian Access
This integration could partially replace the Florenc central bus station to secure better transfer connections between buses and trains. Additionally, plans under proposals like the Šťastný Hlavák project contemplate building a staircase to provide a direct pedestrian link into the nearby park area known as Sherwood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is funding and managing the ongoing construction work?
The investor for the project is the Railway Administration (Správa železnic), not the city magistracy.
How long will traffic be restricted on the magistrála during the first phase?
The initial phase of construction lasts 126 days, running from July 13 until mid-November 2026.
What will happen to the existing car lanes on the highway?
Current plans maintain three lanes in each direction (3 plus 3) while establishing the foundation for future bicycle lanes, as proposals to reduce car lanes faced objections from road authorities and police.
How do you view these upcoming pedestrian and transit changes around the station area?
Keep reading