After a 10-month closure, the Jiřího z Poděbrad metro station in Prague-Vinohrady has reopened to the public. This crucial station, part of Line A in Prague’s metro network, has undergone a comprehensive renovation, aimed at restoring its original architectural features from its inauguration in 1980. In addition to architectural preservation, the station now features new escalators and lifts, enhancing accessibility for all passengers. The total cost of this ambitious project is estimated to be around 1.3 billion koruna.

Petr Witowski, Director of the Prague Public Transit Company, expressed his satisfaction at the station’s reopening, emphasizing, “This has been the most complex revitalization of a metro station after forty years of operation.” The renovation work has encompassed various aspects, including restored pavements, claddings, and suspended ceilings in the escalator tunnel. Additionally, improvements have been made to cabling, air conditioning, fire protection equipment, and lighting.

One notable aspect of the renovation has been the focus on restoring the station’s original architectural form, which has necessitated a reduction in advertising carriers to maintain the station’s overall aesthetic and architectural impression.

The Jiřího z Poděbrad station now boasts LTE and 5G signal coverage, making it the last metro station in Prague to be covered by modern data signals. The city has also introduced a new visual navigation and information system at this station, featuring a dominant black color scheme. A “side navigation” feature has been incorporated to guide passengers upon arrival at the station, assisting them in selecting the right platform and direction, particularly beneficial for tourists unfamiliar with the city’s metro network.

While the station has reopened, some renovation work remains ongoing. Lifts, intended to provide barrier-free access to the station, are expected to become operational by mid-2024. The station’s reconstruction began in September 2021 and was undertaken by a consortium of the STRABAG and AŽD Praha companies. The total cost of the station’s revitalization, including the construction of lifts, is estimated at 1.29 billion koruna. This extensive renovation is expected to greatly enhance the commuting experience for the people of Prague and its visitors.

Article by Prague Forum