The construction of a critical 12.6-kilometer section of the Prague Ring Road between Běchovice and the D1 motorway has officially begun. The CZK 9.8 billion project, excluding VAT, is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, according to Radek Mátl, Director General of the Road and Motorway Directorate (ŘSD). The project aims to ease traffic congestion in Prague and improve transportation connectivity for the entire Czech Republic. The section will link the D1 and D11 motorways, significantly reducing truck traffic through areas such as Spořilov and the Štěrboholská radiál. It will also ease congestion on Prague’s Southern Link and nearby city districts, such as Běchovice, Úvaly, and Hostivař. Construction is being undertaken by a consortium comprising Eurovia CZ, Bridge Construction, Porr, and Porr Bau. The ŘSD awarded the contract in mid-November. Prime Minister Petr Fiala emphasized the project’s importance: “This section of the Prague Ring Road is crucial for both Prague and the entire country.” He highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure, with CZK 150 billion invested in transport projects this year and CZK 160 billion planned for 2025. Transport Minister Martin Kupka called the project vital for Central Europe, particularly alongside the D35 motorway. He praised cooperation with local municipalities and the Central Bohemian Region, noting the absence of appeals against the building permit—a rarity in such large projects. The project, part of a pan-European road network, is likely to receive significant funding from the European Union. Monika Landmanová, head of the European Commission’s representation in the Czech Republic, expects the Operational Programme Transport to cover up to 85% of eligible costs. While the new motorway promises long-term benefits, residents near the construction area may face temporary inconveniences, including increased noise, freight traffic, and restrictions on public transport. Officials have asked for patience during the construction process. The Prague Ring Road, originally planned as an 83-kilometer loop, is divided into 11 sections. Seven sections are currently operational, with the first opening in 1983 and the most recent in 2010, connecting the D1 and D5 motorways. The new segment between Běchovice and D1 is one of four remaining sections yet to be completed, including three northern sections linking Satalice, Březiněves, and Ruzyně. The Czech Republic’s motorway network spans 1,388 kilometers as of early 2024. This year, the ŘSD opened a record 111 kilometers of new motorways, with an additional 80 kilometers planned for next year, including the final segment of the D1 motorway. With the Běchovice-D1 section now underway, the Prague Ring Road takes another step toward completion, promising a transformative impact on the region’s transport infrastructure and traffic flow. Source: CTK