Prague’s Smíchov district faces yet another traffic challenge as Plzeňská Street closed to all automobile and bus traffic on Wednesday, July 16. The Technical Administration of Communications (TSK) has shut down this key transportation artery as part of a planned reconstruction, allowing only trams to pass through. Despite clear signage, some drivers have been ignoring the restrictions and entering the closed section.
The extensive reconstruction of the heavily-used Plzeňská Street, which began before the summer holidays, has now moved into its final and most traffic-disruptive phase. The primary reason for the work is the reconstruction of an outdated gas pipeline by Prague Gas Distribution (PPD), along with road surface repairs by TSK, water main renewal by the Prague Water Management Company, and tram track renovation by the public transport company.
The summer closure is expected to last until nearly the end of the vacation period, with all work scheduled for completion by Friday, August 29. Josef Richtr, Vice-Chairman of the TSK Board, emphasized the clear deadline: “The last weekend before the end of holidays, so that Prague residents can return to full operation.”The detour route runs along Mozart Street, Duškov Street, Vrchlický Street, and Erben Street.
This isn’t the only closure complicating traffic in Prague’s western region this summer. Since July 1, Karlovarská Street in Prague 17 has been closed for road renewal, new asphalt laying, bus stop renovation, and drainage system cleaning. Additionally, from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 27, part of Nádražní Street will be completely closed for the installation of a new steel railway bridge structure.
Bus lines 123 and 191 will have limited service throughout the summer holidays. “These lines will terminate in the Klamovka/Kavalírka area when coming from Šmukýřka and Strahov. Line 167 will remain in operation to Anděl. Tram transport on Plzeňská Street will be reinforced with an additional line,” added Aneta Řehková, spokesperson for the Prague Public Transport Company.