The second stage of the reconstruction of the Barrandov Bridge, the busiest transport structure in the Czech Republic, is set to begin on May 15 and is expected to conclude on August 14. However, Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib has not ruled out the possibility of an extension until the end of the second summer month. Motorists will face restrictions on the Barrandov Bridge starting this weekend as traffic signs are installed. The repair work will involve the closure of one traffic lane in each direction from mid-May, leaving three lanes open.

In addition to the lane closures, the ramp from K Barrandovu Street will also be closed starting from noon on Saturday. This particular ramp sees more traffic than the Strakonická ramp, which was closed during the first phase of reconstruction last year. As a result, Hřib expects a greater impact on Prague’s traffic during this phase. He has called on drivers to exercise patience and understanding.

The Barrandov Bridge is a critical and heavily traversed transportation structure, accommodating up to 140,000 cars daily. Given the significant adjustments required for the bridge, Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda emphasizes the importance of considering the resulting traffic burden and encourages drivers to plan their journeys accordingly.

Detour routes will direct traffic to the Prague Ring Road, which does not require a highway toll sticker. Vehicles will be guided through the Lochkovský tunnel along Strakonická Street, leading to the Barrandov Bridge and the Southern Link. For longer distances such as Modřany, Kamýk, or Chodov, drivers can continue on the D0 ring road to the Písnice exit, which will remain open during the reconstruction. From there, they can proceed to the city center via Libušská Street or continue on D0 to the Vestec exit. Another option is to access the D1 highway and reach the city center via Brněnská and 5. května streets.

Hřib recommends utilizing navigation systems that provide real-time information on the current traffic situation in the city. He also advises considering the use of public transportation, as Strakonická Street offers dedicated bus lanes for smooth bus travel. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the Barrandov Bridge or plan their trips outside of peak hours whenever possible.

Jozef Sinčák, CEO of the Technical Road Administration, assures the public that preparations for the reconstruction are proceeding according to plan. He emphasizes the importance of successfully managing the first few days, expressing concern about potential rain that could exacerbate traffic congestion. The upcoming reconstruction will bring significant changes to the city’s traffic patterns, and drivers should be prepared for challenging conditions during the coming months.

Article by Prague Forum