Look at the freed space in the historic center of Košice — months of restrictions finally show visible results. The fence that surrounded Dolná brána (Lower Gate) and the adjacent part of Hlavná street for almost eight months has officially disappeared. The city opened the renovated area, and this was appreciated not only by local residents but also by organizers of upcoming sports events.
Early opening due to marathon
The mayor of Košice, Jaroslav Polaček, signed documents for early use of the location, thanks to which the renovated zone opened to the public. But this does not mean the final completion of all construction work. This step was taken primarily with regard to the International Peace Marathon.
- Convenient route for runners: The traditional marathon starts this Sunday, October 4, and the reconstructed section will ensure that participants run through the center without construction obstacles.
- Schedule until the end of November: The contractual deadline for full completion of all work remains unchanged, and the contractor company Betpres must fully hand over the site by the end of November.
- Financial framework: The total investment cost for the 150-meter section from the Archaeological Museum to the intersection with Roosevelt street reaches 2.7 million euros excluding VAT, with the project mainly funded by euro funds, and the city participating with eight percent. The total construction price, including unplanned works, is about three million euros with VAT.
What changed in the center and what is still being done
The large-scale reconstruction focused not only on the visual side but primarily on eliminating old technical problems. The main priority was the complete replacement of waterproofing, sanitation of concrete and steel elements, and construction of drainage wells to protect the museum's underground premises from water.
Besides engineering networks, the public space also changed. The slippery granite tiles in front of the stage were replaced with safe anti-slip coating, new stairs appeared allowing visitors to get closer to the original walls, and the space was complemented by glass canopies and new small architectural elements. In the final stages after the marathon, workers will finish underground technologies, plant new trees, install the remaining furniture, and modernize seven 24-hour self-service toilets.
Detailed information and a photo gallery of the work progress are provided by the SITA report. You can also learn about current events, cultural activities, and leisure opportunities in the eastern capital in our events overview.
