On the embankment in Podskalí, galleries, cafes, and toilets will be added

Prague - New galleries, cafes, and restrooms will be added to the Vltava riverbank in Podskálí. This is part of the architectural study approved by Prague city councilors today. The new benches and trash bins are expected to appear on the riverbank first. After the renovation of the Podskálí embankment is completed, modifications in other areas will follow. The price of the modifications is not specified by the materials.

The riverbanks transform into a social gathering place during the season, attracting thousands of visitors. "We plan to install new benches on Rašínovo embankment this year," said Mayor Adriana Krnáčová. "We also want to test the operation of smart trash bins and lighting," she added.

Architects proposed transforming the niches located in the wall of the embankment. These formerly served as technical facilities or storage. "There are three basic types of use. A cafe, possibly with another operation like Bajkazyl, a gallery, and public restrooms," states the document approved by the councilors. The specific use of the spaces relates to their surroundings to avoid duplicating functions. It takes into account, for example, the Vltava restaurant, the docking station, and moored boats.

"We would like to have it finished by the beginning of next season. We wanted to accelerate it, but it's not technically possible," Krnáčová said. The city will find operators for the niches through a public tender. Specific conditions for the procedure will be established.

Prague's riverbanks are especially popular among locals in the summer. Additionally, the main cycle path A2 runs along the right bank. Besides the inadequate social facilities and missing trash bins, visitors have long complained mainly about parked cars and conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists. Moored boats also pose a problem, obstructing the view of the river and attractive parts of the city.