Expansion of dangerous Prague 3 tram stop to enhance pedestrian safety

In a bid to enhance safety and streamline traffic flow, Prague's public transport company DPP has begun work on expanding the Biskupcova tram stop, a heavily frequented location in the Žižkov neighborhood.

The project, which began this morning and is slated to conclude by the start of the school year on August 28, seeks to address several pressing concerns associated with the existing narrow tram island that has received criticism from pedestrians and officials for years.

The current configuration of the Biskupcova tram stop has raised alarms due to its tight layout, especially during peak hours when schoolchildren and parents flood the area. The expansion will greatly increase the width of the tram island to 3.9 meters, while reducing the number of automotive traffic lanes from two to one.

"By narrowing this road, we will protect pedestrians, especially children, without significantly restricting car traffic," Prague 3 Mayor Michal Vronský writes on Facebook, emphasizing that the renovations are envisioned as a compromise that will significantly bolster safety without causing undue traffic disruption.

The revamp will encompass various aspects, including the installation of new railings and a shelter with side panels. The proposed changes are in line with the growing demands for improved transport infrastructure, particularly in areas with significant pedestrian traffic.

Construction in the area began this morning, with work expected to conclude by August 28. During this period, Jan Želivský Street between Jeseniová and Biskupcová will be temporarily closed to automotive traffic, with a detour route provided via Olšanská, Prokopova, and Rokycanova streets for drivers.

"We will work on expanding the currently very narrow and completely inadequate platform at the Biskupcova stop in the direction of Ohrada," DPP writes on Facebook. "In this way, we will increase its capacity and ensure the safety of passengers, and speed up their check-in and comfort while waiting for a connection."

For the time being, only the tram stop in one direction will be expanded. If the project proves successful, the tram platform in the other direction will also be expanded, according to Vronský.

This initiative aligns with Prague's broader commitment to sustainable urban development and prioritizes the safety and convenience of its residents, especially schoolchildren and pedestrians. The planned enhancements, if successful, could serve as a model for future similar projects across the city.