A new, modern bridge will link two parts of Prague 7 by Holešovice

A new, modern bridge will cross the Troja-Podbaba canal near Prague's Stromovka park, providing a much-needed upgrade to the current structure. An expert jury chose the Nemec & Taller Architektur studio's design for its durability, resistance to floods and vessels, pedestrian access, and low maintenance needs.

The jury had to choose between a fixed bridge and a pair of bridges with a movable footbridge, ultimately deciding on the former option for its clean and elegant design, integration of different modes of transportation, and added value for users.

The new bridge will have space for cyclists, developers say.

Jury chairman Pavel Ryjáček, head of the department of steel and wooden structures at the Faculty of Civil Engineering at the Czech Technical University in Prague, commented: "The winning bridge design is resistant to both the impact of vessels and floods and has low maintenance requirements."

The director of the Directorate of Waterways (ŘVC), Lubomír Fojtů, said that construction should begin no later than 2028. The estimated cost of the bridge is CZK 250 million, but could change as the design process progresses. 

The Nemec & Taller Architektur studio's design was chosen among 12 competing proposals, with five being selected for the final round. The winning design was praised by Fojtů as "more than successful."

The competition was a collaboration between ŘVC, the Institute for Planning and Development of the Capital City of Prague (IPR Praha), and the capital city management. The jury consisted of representatives from various organizations and experts in the field.

The public will have the opportunity to view the five best designs at an exhibition in September, as well as at the Poznej Vltava festival on Sept. 22.

This project is part of a larger effort to modernize bridges along the Vltava River, with 10 already completed and seven more currently in progress. The new bridge at Za Elektrárnou Street will join the ranks of these upgraded structures, providing a safer and more efficient navigation route for tall ships. The new bridge represents a significant step forward in improving transportation and navigation along the Vltava River.