Greener and better: Three-year project to revitalize Jiřího z Poděbrad square begins

A near 3-year-long reconstruction project, costing around CZK 478 million, has now begun to transform Prague's iconic Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad (JzP) square.

Most of the square has now been fenced off for the preparation of excavation work and construction. The weekly farmer’s markets will remain, but will be moved to another part of the square.

The project, initiated by Prague 3, has now been taken over by the City of Prague, which cites the square's significance and the need for a systematic approach. According to Prague deputy mayor Petr Hlaváček, the current state of the square is a result of haphazard modifications over the years and does not reflect its significance. "Our goal was a conceptual approach to the revitalization of the square, which the city district and its residents undoubtedly deserve," Hlaváček said in a press release.

The project, which has been in the works for over 20 years, will include several improvements in the popular cultural spot such as a new event space in front of the Church of the Sacred Heart, the replacement of asphalt with paving or crushed surfaces, and the addition of new greenery. 

The children's playground will also be expanded and relocated, and a new storage tank will be built to provide irrigation for the greenery. The square will also undergo modifications to improve pedestrian access and parking, with a small increase in the number of parking spaces.

According to the municipality, workers have also begun cutting down bushes and poorly rooted trees, with plans to plant 150 new trees, including sycamores, maples, hornbeams, elms, oaks, lindens, and ornamental cherries. Additionally, newly planted lawns with higher resistance will also be added. 

Late last year, the adjacent JzP metro station was reopened after a two-year closure, underlining the city’s desire to upgrade the current area.

The reconstruction of the JzP square is a long-awaited project that aims to create an integrated high-quality public space for the city's residents. With a focus on revitalization and improvement of the square's cultural significance, this project is set to transform the square into a modern and vibrant gathering place for years to come.