Three-year project to revitalize Masaryk rail station begins today

The long-awaited modernization of Prague's Masaryk rail station begins today, with a ceremonial opening organized by representatives of the Ministry of Transport and the Railway Administration. 

The reconstruction aims to create a platform above the tracks, improve the connection with Florenc metro station, and increase the number of tracks from seven to nine. The project is expected to be completed in 2027, with a total cost of CZK 3.4 billion. The reconstruction will be carried out by Austrian building firm Strabag.

Escalators, stairs, and elevators will provide access from the floor to the individual platforms, and a new vestibule will be built for waiting passengers. Additionally, the entire track, technology, traction lines, and power supply will also undergo reconstruction.

There will also be a new vestibule (or waiting hall) for passengers. All tracks, technology, traction lines, and power supplies also await reconstruction to increase the station's efficiency to reduce the likelihood of delays.

Despite the reconstruction, the station will remain operational and trains will continue to stop there, although with partial restrictions. The renovated station will become barrier-free and feature a new roof connecting Florenc with Hybernská Street and the main railway station. 

Masaryk Station, the oldest railway station in Prague, has a rich history. The first train arrived there on Aug. 20, 1845, marking the start of railway transportation in the city. Before that, the station only served as a terminus for horse-drawn carriages in 1831. 

The station was designed by Jan Perner, with building architect Antonín Jüngling, and was built by a consortium of Vojtěch Lanna and the Klein brothers between 1844 and 1845. It initially served as the final stop for the railway from Olomouc and Vienna to Prague.

The area is also getting somewhat of a facelift – late last year, Development company Penta Real Estate ceremonially unveiled the golden facade of large buildings just outside Masaryk rail station. Penta intends to invest further funds in the planned re-roofing of Masaryk railway station.

The reconstruction is expected to bring many positive changes and upgrades to the station, making it a more efficient and user-friendly transportation hub.