Prague Invests CZK 137 Million in Cycling Infrastructure as Bike Sharing Surges

The City of Prague has announced a substantial investment of CZK 137 million to expand and improve the city's cycling infrastructure in 2024. The funds will be allocated to developing existing cycle paths and creating new routes to make the Czech capital more bicycle-friendly.

Notable projects include extending the A1 cycle route in Radotín, upgrading the A2 right-bank cycle path near Podolský nábřeží, and adding a 900-meter section to the long-awaited A7 route connecting Kačerov metro station to the U Labutě cycling hub in Krč. The city also plans to develop cycle paths along the Vltava River and in the Žižkov district.

In addition to the city-wide initiatives, local districts are undertaking their own projects to enhance cycling infrastructure. Prague 19 will refurbish two kilometers of combined pedestrian and cyclist paths on the A431 route, while Prague 14 aims to finalize the A8 cycle route at Českobrodská street.

Prague is also integrating cycling lanes into ongoing urban development projects. The reconstruction of Hartigova street in Žižkov and Dukelských Hrdinů street in Holešovice will incorporate dedicated cycling infrastructure. The upcoming overhaul at the Sokolovská-Českomoravská intersection in Prague 9 will also prioritize cyclist safety and convenience.

Why this matters: The significant investment in cycling infrastructure reflects Prague's commitment to promoting sustainable urban mobility and reducing reliance on motor vehicles. By making the city more cycle-friendly, Prague aims to improve air quality, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents and visitors.

The city's efforts to support cycling have already yielded positive results, with a significant increase in bike-sharing trips recorded in 2023. The annual 'Do práce na kole' (Bike to Work) initiative, set to take place in May 2024, is expected to further promote cycling as a healthy and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation.

The upcoming Bike Fest exhibition will showcase various types of bicycles and explore Prague's suitability for cycling. With the city's continued investment in cycling infrastructure and the growing popularity of bike sharing, Prague is well on its way to becoming a more sustainable and livable city.

Key Takeaways

• Prague to invest CZK 137 million to expand cycling infrastructure in 2024.
• Projects include extending A1, upgrading A2, and adding 900m to A7 route.
• Local districts undertaking their own cycling infrastructure projects.
• Cycling lanes integrated into ongoing urban development projects.
• Investments aim to promote sustainable mobility and improve quality of life.