In Rokycany, a major reconstruction of the gymnasium into a cultural center will begin in the fall

Rokycany – In Rokycany, a major reconstruction of the long-closed Sokolovna into a modern cultural and community center will begin in September. City representatives today signed a contract with the contractor. The total investment, which includes not only construction but also supervision, interior design, and accompanying works, amounts to nearly 586 million crowns. Additionally, the city will issue a competition for interior furnishings. The construction phase is set to be completed within two years, and the center could open by the end of 2027, spokesperson for the Rokycany town hall, Natálie Vainarová, told ČTK today.

"The signing of the contract is a crucial milestone. The Sokolovna has long been a symbol of unused potential and public discussions. However, it will now be transformed into a place that will serve everyone – for culture, community, and the future of the city," stated Mayor Tomáš Rada (Rokycanští patrioti). In the fourteen-thousand-strong Rokycany, the third-largest city in the Plzeň region, there is a lack of quality space for organizing cultural events, graduation balls, galas, or city celebrations.

The historic part of the Sokolovna, completed in 1905, had to be closed in 2016 due to the emergency condition of ceilings affected by woodworm. Only the extensions with a restaurant, changing rooms, and a small gym remained accessible. After financial problems, in 2018, the city took over the Sokolovna, including the tennis complex. This year, the council approved the reconstruction for which the town hall received a grant of nearly 71 million crowns to reduce the building's energy intensity.

In the old building, two multifunctional halls and a dance studio will be created, along with facilities for performers and a new vestibule. The extensions from the 20s and 80s of the last century will be removed by the construction company and replaced with a modern building featuring an underground parking lot. There will also be a public piazzetta for outdoor events.

The cultural center will be barrier-free and open to all generations. According to the mayor, the revitalization of the area will improve the quality of public space and strengthen cultural life in the city and the entire region. The project will also contribute to reduced emissions and long-term operational sustainability.