Prague mayoral candidates debate transport and infrastructure plans

As the Prague mayoral elections approach on October 9 and 10, candidates are centering their platforms on transport infrastructure and urban development. Key priorities include the completion of Metro D and the construction of the city and Prague ring roads.

Candidates hold differing views on financing these massive projects. Jan Hušbauer (ANO) claims the city has sufficient funds to finance Metro D and the city ring road without new European Investment Bank loans. Conversely, Tomáš Portlík (Spolu) argues that the costs for Metro D and the inner ring road alone will exceed 200 billion CZK, necessitating pragmatic negotiations with the national government. Klára Sovová (Motorists) suggests the city possesses ample funds but lacks the ability to convert them into completed projects.

Political tensions also surround past infrastructure failures. Tomáš Portlík criticized the handling of the Libeň Bridge, describing the reconstruction process as a 'catastrophe' and a demolition. Meanwhile, Tereza Nislerová (Pirates) accused the current Spolu coalition of failing to fulfill promises regarding traffic calming on Smetanovo nábřeží and environmental investments. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the stalled resolution for the Výtoň Bridge.