Litoměřice are considering converting the tunnel into a parking garage

Litoměřice - An unused former railway tunnel in the center of Litoměřice could be transformed into a parking garage. This was indicated by a transport study commissioned by the city administration, said city hall spokesperson Eva Břeňová to ČTK. Litoměřice is trying to address the shortage of parking spaces by seeking entirely new areas. According to Břeňová, the tunnel could provide up to 80 spaces for parallel parking.

"The costs for stabilizing the tunnel walls, access ramps, installing air conditioning, and lighting have been preliminarily estimated at 6.8 million crowns," the spokesperson told ČTK. According to the city hall, it could also include an elevator that would lead directly into the historic city center.

The approximately 300-meter-long tunnel belongs to a private company, with which the city hall will likely negotiate for its purchase. The tunnel was built in the second half of the 19th century. It ceased to serve its purpose in 1958 when it was decommissioned after the track was relocated. Later, it served as storage or garages.

The costs for purchasing the tunnel or its modifications are not yet included in the city budget. "We are looking for realistic options to expand the number of parking spaces in the city center before we initiate a formal discussion with experts and the public on the topic of traffic and parking at Mírové náměstí,” explained the Deputy Mayor of Litoměřice, Karel Krejza (ODS).

Residents identify parking in the city center as one of the most pressing issues. At the end of September, the city hall testably closed part of the central Mírové náměstí and created a pedestrian zone. The city also conducted a survey among the people regarding parking. The results will be evaluated in November.