Planning a trip around the city on Wednesday, September 16, without extra time could be risky. The eastern capital of Slovakia will host the 70th anniversary international cycling race Okolo Slovenska, which will cause significant restrictions for drivers and passengers.
The first stage of this prestigious event starts right in the city, but the most difficult situation will occur in the afternoon when the peloton returns to Košice.
When and where to expect the biggest delays
The Košice city transport company warns that the main wave of restrictions will affect city public transport approximately from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Cyclists will return to the city from the Čermeľ area and will circle through the wide city center.
The route itself will pass through key transport arteries where intersections will be completely closed:
- Hlinkova
- Národná trieda
- Gorkého
- Štefánikova
- Rooseveltova
- Štúrova
- Trieda SNP
- Watsonova
Additionally, in the final stage, the route will again pass through Národná trieda, Gorkého, Štefánikova up to the finish on Rooseveltova street.
How public transport routes will change
These measures will affect almost all bus and tram routes. The transport company informs that service will be interrupted for the necessary time directly on the route and at intersections crossed by the race route.
Passengers should expect significant delays and irregular schedules. Delays may continue even shortly after the police reopen the road for other traffic participants. Public transport drivers will be required to wait for instructions from the dispatch service and police during closures.
Permanent closures in the city center
Besides the peloton passage itself, restrictions in the center are in effect well in advance. From the night of Monday to Tuesday (September 15), Rooseveltova, Pribinova, Greššáková, Mojmírová streets, part of Timonova street, and the area between the Dargov department store and Hilton hotel are fully closed. This closure will last until Wednesday evening, approximately 8:00 PM.
If you plan to move around the city or other districts on Wednesday afternoon, allow much more time for travel or consider postponing non-urgent trips.
