The renovation of the square bothers some residents of Ostrava, but the city says it is necessary

Ostrava - Local entrepreneurs and residents of surrounding houses are worried about the reconstruction of the central Masaryk Square in Ostrava. The square, which was long dug up for the construction of a collector, is once again experiencing lively construction activity due to its complete reconstruction. Today, a rescue archaeological survey also began on it.
"I live here, and it is really more than tough. I don't know if older people are already hard of hearing so it doesn't bother them. I think the square didn't necessarily need this adjustment and the investment could have been made elsewhere," said one resident to ČTK.
Ostrava's mayor Aleš Zedník, on the other hand, believes that the reconstruction is necessary. "A developing city must necessarily be accompanied by construction activity. The reconstruction of the square is a debt to the people of Ostrava. I would like to ask people for patience and promise them that the new square will become a landmark of the city," Zedník noted.
The repair of the square could be completed by the end of this year. It is being jointly financed by the city of Ostrava in cooperation with the city district of Moravská Ostrava and Přívoz. The total cost of the repair will be approximately 94 million crowns, with about 20 million crowns to be paid by the district. Zedník believes that the repair will also encourage the owners of surrounding houses to consider reconstructing their facades. For example, the Prior department store, which is owned by a private owner and was one of the least attractive buildings in the square, is currently being repaired.
The original rectangular square, bordered by Střelniční and Solná streets and on the other side by Poštovní street and the Ostrava Museum, will be reconstructed. In total, approximately 9,500 square meters will be reconstructed, and only the Marian column will be preserved from the current appearance of the square. There will be approximately 30 brass plaques placed on the square to remind people of important events from the history of Ostrava. A short text will be attached to each date. New public lighting, benches, and drinking fountains will be added to the square. The bust of the first president T. G. Masaryk will be moved from the magistrate to the square, and there will be a new fountain with water features in the middle of the square.