Brno, while repairing Štefánikova, emphasizes parking and does not count on a bike path anymore

Brno – Brno has deviated from the six-year-old plans of the previous coalition when planning the repairs of Štefánikova Street. The council approved an investment plan, the essence of which is the reorganization of the street space, emphasizing maximum use for parking. To maximize the number of parking spaces, neither a bike lane nor wider sidewalks are being considered anymore. According to the previous study, the sidewalks were supposed to be four meters wide to accommodate café terraces. In the current study, the city has reduced that to half, as stated in a press release from the city hall to ČTK.

The previous city leadership, led by then-mayor Petr Vokřál, proposed changes to the street layout that were intended to ensure enough space for pedestrians and café terraces, which was accommodated by the adequate width of the street, measuring 32 meters. In the past, the street served as a main artery for incoming traffic from the north, but it lost that role long ago. A separate bike lane was also supposed to be constructed in one direction, with a bike lane in the opposite direction. In the current study, the sidewalks have been narrowed by half, and bike lanes have replaced the bike lane. Originally, parking spots were planned to be longitudinal, whereas now perpendicular spaces are also being planned.

"The bike lane was abandoned due to the cross connections in the street that disrupt traffic on the bike route, meaning cyclists would have to yield at all intersecting streets. Moreover, there would be a decrease in parking spaces. From the perspective of the wider area, cyclists are directed along the path on Botanická Street, and another path is in preparation near Sportovní Street. Thus, Štefánikova is addressed with bike lanes primarily for its transit significance, as it represents a quick connection between the city center and the northern part of the city," said city hall spokeswoman Anna Dudková.

The publication of the city's proposal has generated quite strong discontent. Critics of the reconstruction of Brno's streets have long pointed out that the city is consistently squandering opportunities to breathe more life into them by giving more space to pedestrians or cyclists. Instead, the street space remains virtually unchanged, and priority is given to motor vehicle traffic. Leaders from ANO, Pirates, and Greens are also dissatisfied, and the deputy mayor of Židenice and Senate candidate Petr Kunc (SEN 21) has also expressed negativity.

The Brno Cycling Association does not intend to come to terms with this proposal either. "We will do everything we can to overturn this betrayal of pedestrians," said Michal Šindelář, a representative of the association, to ČTK. He believes that the reconstruction of Štefánikova Street is an ideal opportunity to create the first part of a "bike highway" from Medlánky and Řečkovice to the city center, as it represents the direct and fastest route.

According to the leader of the Pirates for municipal elections, Marek Lahoda, bike lanes are suitable as a temporary, quick, and cheap solution to the unfavorable situation. "When the whole street is to be completely reconstructed, the best possible solution should always be sought. And that is separated bike lanes, safely removed from cars and pedestrians," he said. If the Pirates have influence after the elections on transportation – currently under the purview of ODS – they will explore the possibility of addressing bike transport on this street in the form of a bike lane extending behind the trees along the western side of the street.

ANO is also among the critics. "Štefánikova deserves more greenery and a more diverse community life. That is why we want to win the elections, to turn it into a modern street with plenty of greenery and gardens where Brno residents will feel good," said René Černý, a candidate for mayor for ANO.

Currently, the investment plan for the street repairs has been approved. Projects for the zoning decision and building permit will still be prepared.