The anticipated cost of constructing a new transfer terminal at Smíchov, Prague, is expected to reach up to eight billion CZK excluding VAT, a significant escalation from the initial estimate of 2.16 billion CZK just three years ago. This increase in projected costs comes alongside the Railway Administration’s plans to renovate the existing station, incurring an additional expenditure of 5.2 billion CZK.

In a recent meeting, city councilors decided to initiate a public tender for the terminal’s contractor, a project originally developed by the A69 studio and later acquired by the city. The estimated value of the contract is eight billion CZK, excluding VAT, and city representatives are set to vote on it this Thursday.

The city envisions an ambitious plan for the terminal, aiming to create a comprehensive transportation hub that integrates various modes of transport under one roof. This includes rail, all bus lines, trolleybuses, trams, and the metro, complemented by a sizable P+R parking lot accommodating up to 950 cars, located south of the current station.

Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib of the Pirate Party emphasized that the project has undergone significant changes and expansions. The final price is expected to be determined through a public competition. The main bus terminal is slated to be situated on the roof of the new building above the railway tracks.

Beyond serving as a transportation hub, the new terminal’s roof is designed to support a solar power plant, contributing to sustainability goals. Hřib anticipates construction to commence next year, with an estimated duration ranging from five to seven years. Emphasizing the importance of modern transport terminals to alleviate urban congestion, he emphasized the need for swift progress.

While funding for the construction may not be solely sourced from Prague, Hřib intends to seek support from the state, deeming the project of supra-regional significance, akin to the planned Dlouhá Míle terminal near Ruzyně Airport. City councilor Zdeněk Kovářík of the ODS party disclosed that the city has initiated efforts to secure external financing, including exploring potential European sources.

Article by Prague Forum