Ostrava is addressing transport infrastructure for the planned university buildings

Ostrava - Ostrava wants to address several transport constructions in connection with the construction of buildings for the University of Ostrava at the Černá louka exhibition ground. For example, it plans to modify the road that separates the planned university complex from the Ostravice River. Deputy Mayor Zuzana Bajgarová (ANO) told reporters today.

"Several transport constructions in the area are being addressed. One of them is the resolution of Pivovarská Street, which needs to be reconstructed in the long term. It is currently in the phase of documentation for spatial planning proceedings. We are also reacting to studies that have been prepared in the area, and we are considering solutions near Smetanova Square," said Bajgarová.

But the most urgent is the road on the left bank of the Ostravice. The city wants to calm traffic in the area. With the help of spatial adjustments and the materials used, it aims to diminish the purely transport function of this road. The study therefore proposes to supplement the road, for example, with a cycling path or a promenade for pedestrians. There should also be a nook with seating. The city wants to connect the project with the buildings of the University of Ostrava so that the project is completed by the time the buildings are opened. Construction is expected to take place in 2020 to 2021.

The total costs of transport constructions near the university buildings are not yet known to the city. It is planning investment intentions. However, for the adjustments around the waterfront, it estimates costs of around 40 million crowns.

Due to the construction of new university buildings, the city will also have to relocate the tram loop and address the future of the Miniuni area, where models of famous buildings are located. The relocation of the loop is expected to cost around 67 million crowns excluding VAT. According to Bajgarová, there is no rush on this matter for now.

However, by June, the city must have a clear plan regarding the Miniuni area. The deputy mayor admitted today that one possible option is its cancellation. Until now, there had only been talks about relocating it to the area near the Silesian-Ostrava Castle. However, according to Bajgarová, it is becoming evident that the exhibits are in poor condition. "At this moment, the director of Černá louka is considering how to proceed with Miniuni," said Bajgarová. Clarity could emerge in a few weeks.

The university wants to build not only modern facilities for sports in the area but also a building that will be used by the Faculty of Arts. The complex will also enable the university to teach new fields. The university received funds from the Operational Program Research, Development, and Education as part of the Restart project, which aims to help initiate changes in the Moravian-Silesian, Ústí, and Karlovy Vary regions. The sports facilities are expected to cost 645 million crowns, while the building for the Faculty of Arts will cost 357 million crowns. The city donated land to the university for construction and will also build an underground parking lot under one of the buildings.