Prague & SZ Partner on High-Speed Rail with Integrated Urban Development

The Czech infrastructure manager Správa železnic (SZ), in partnership with the City of Prague and the Prague 10 district administration, has formalized plans for a crucial high-speed rail line segment through the city. This landmark cooperation memorandum signals a holistic approach to urban development, integrating advanced rail infrastructure with the creation of modern, livable urban spaces.

Strategic Impact

This agreement marks a significant step in Prague’s ambitious high-speed rail network expansion, prioritizing urban integration and resident well-being. The initiative goes beyond mere infrastructure development, aiming to transform the areas around the new lines into desirable living environments. By carefully planning the new railway depot in Strašnice and the associated urban amenities, SZ and its municipal partners are setting a precedent for how major rail projects can positively contribute to city life.

Strašnice Depot: A Hub for Future Urbanism

A cornerstone of the agreement is the development of a new, state-of-the-art railway depot in Strašnice. This facility will be dedicated to the maintenance and parking of high-speed trains. Crucially, the design incorporates future urban development, with plans for a footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists, a new road bridge, and designated areas for future construction above sections of the depot. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the land will be utilized efficiently, even after the high-speed lines become operational, fostering a dynamic urban landscape.

The Railway Promenade: Greening Urban Corridors

Complementing the depot project is the creation of the Railway Promenade, envisioned as a vibrant green axis and a vital pathway for pedestrians and cyclists. This promenade will repurpose the former railway line, connecting Vršovice and Strašnice and offering a safe and aesthetically pleasing route for daily commutes and recreational activities. Special attention has been paid to ensuring the promenade’s functionality remains intact even with the introduction of the new high-speed rail infrastructure, with adaptive design solutions at intersection points.

“In Strašnice, we are combining it with urban projects – a depot that can be built over in the future and a Railway Promenade that will transform the old line into a green axis for pedestrians and cyclists,” stated Bohuslav Svoboda, the Mayor of Prague. “We insist that the work be carried out with respect for residents, reducing noise and dust, protecting trees, and ensuring clear coordination and minimal discomfort. The agreement is an important step in preparing for the high-speed line, as it is a commitment that it will not be built against the city, but for the city.”

Mojmír Nejezchleb, SZ’s Deputy General Manager responsible for network modernization, added, “The signed memorandum shows that a high-speed line and a quality public space can be developed together in Prague. The Strašnice depot and Railway Promenade projects are designed to naturally support the development of the surrounding neighborhood and pedestrian and bicycle mobility.”

All participating institutions have committed to stringent joint coordination throughout the preparation and execution phases to minimize any disruption to residents. Comprehensive measures are planned to mitigate noise and dust, safeguard valuable trees and green areas, and ensure a collaborative and minimally invasive construction process.

Industry Context

This proactive approach by Správa železnic and Prague’s municipal authorities demonstrates a global trend towards more integrated and community-focused infrastructure projects. As high-speed rail networks expand across Europe and beyond, the ability to seamlessly blend advanced transportation with urban regeneration is becoming a critical differentiator. This model of development, which prioritizes user experience, environmental considerations, and long-term urban vitality, will be closely watched by other infrastructure managers and city planners seeking to maximize the socio-economic benefits of rail investments. The successful execution of these Strašnice projects could serve as a blueprint for future transit-oriented developments, enhancing the appeal and functionality of urban centers worldwide.