Brno has launched a project for a city rapid transit system, connecting both train stations

Brno - Experts on railway line design and urban planners today began preparations for a project for a city rapid transit system that could connect the new railway station with the existing one in the historic center of the city. Regional train services would still stop in the city center, five minutes' walk from the central Freedom Square. The study has been commissioned by the Brno city hall and is expected to be completed by the end of July this year, said city hall spokesman Pavel Žára to ČTK.
    The main objective of the study is to investigate the land-use, technical, and economic conditions for the construction of the rapid transit system. It could connect two previously irreconcilable projects - relocating the station approximately 800 meters to the south and its reconstruction in the existing location in the center of Brno.
    The original project for the reconstruction of the Brno railway junction that utilized the old station building did not include this, and any potential construction of the rapid transit system was to be a separate project. However, the reconstruction of the junction lost its zoning decision in mid-December last year due to errors by officials, and obtaining a new one will take at least a year and a half. According to Brno's deputy mayor Martin Ander, this opens up the opportunity to redesign the entire project and expand it to include the construction of the rapid transit system.
    "The previous city administration's preparation to abolish operations at the existing station was a mistake. It would have complicated and prolonged daily commuting for tens of thousands of people. Additionally, the abolition of the station would cost the city treasury an extra 150 million annually, as it would have to ensure transportation for passengers from the relocated station," Ander previously told ČTK.
    The reconstruction of the Brno railway, which is related to the relocation of the station, is one of the most discussed construction projects in Brno over the past decade. The investment is expected to cost 20 billion crowns. It should take place with the help of European funds. Last year, construction of the parking station began, which would proceed regardless of the station's location. Next spring, the investor was to apply for the first construction permit.