Ostrava wants to transform the appearance of busy streets

Ostrava – The city of Ostrava wants to change the appearance of the busy streets 28. října and Opavská. For now, it wants to start with non-construction adjustments that do not require permit procedures. It is looking for the best modification proposals for six selected locations. Andrea Vojkovská, spokesperson for the city hall, said this to ČTK.

"Quick non-construction interventions in public spaces are a tool commonly used abroad and in some Czech cities. These may include various aesthetic barriers separating pedestrian zones from the roadway, the addition of furniture for active use of the space, graphic and color processing of surfaces, planting greenery, or removing advertising clutter. Adjustments can be temporary and will help make the spaces more pleasant and safer for residents," said the spokesperson.

The adjustments are intended to be the first phase of a comprehensive transformation of the city boulevard, which is being prepared by the urban studio MAPPA. Interested parties, including architects, designers, or architecture students, can choose any number of the selected locations for their submissions. They can send their ideas until the end of March. In early April, the designers for individual locations will be selected, who must submit their implementation documentation by June 25.

"The implementation of individual proposals is expected to begin in July of this year, with the completion of all projects anticipated in the first half of next year. The total costs for the adjustments of all six locations will not exceed 3.5 million crowns," the spokesperson stated.

Applications must include a short text, sketch, or other graphic representation in which the author presents their opinion on the given location, its issues, or potential. Details can be found on the website of the urban studio.