prague’s railway infrastructure manager,Správa železnic (SŽ),is reassessing security measures at the Bubny Terrace following recent incidents of graffiti adn damage. The terrace,a public space built on former railway land,has become a target for vandalism shortly after its opening,raising concerns about ongoing maintenance costs and public access.

The terrace, located near the bubny railway station in Prague 7, was intended as a recreational area for residents and visitors. Construction concluded in late 2023, transforming a previously inaccessible area into a publicly accessible space. However, within weeks of opening, the site was defaced with graffiti, prompting SŽ to evaluate potential preventative measures.

according to SŽ officials, the terrace’s design, while aiming for openness, may inadvertently provide easy access for vandals.The current layout features minimal barriers and open pathways, making it difficult to monitor and secure the area effectively. The initial damage, reported in late January 2024, included extensive graffiti on walls and surfaces, requiring immediate cleaning and repair.

The cost of the initial cleanup is estimated at CZK 20,000 (approximately $870 USD as of February 29,2024,based on a conversion rate of 23 CZK/USD),according to a statement released by SŽ. Long-term security solutions under consideration include increased surveillance, improved lighting, and the potential installation of physical barriers. SŽ is also exploring collaboration with local authorities and community groups to enhance monitoring and reporting of suspicious activity.

The bubny Terrace project is part of a broader initiative by SŽ to revitalize unused railway land in Prague. Similar projects are planned for other locations throughout the city, including areas near masaryk Station and Vyšehrad. These projects aim to create public spaces while addressing the challenges of maintaining security and preventing vandalism. The total investment in railway land revitalization projects across Prague is projected to exceed CZK 50 million (approximately $2.17 million USD) over the next three years, according to SŽ’s 2024 budget report.

Discussions are underway regarding the balance between accessibility and security.SŽ acknowledges the importance of providing public access to these spaces but emphasizes the need to protect public investments and ensure the long-term viability of these projects. A public forum is scheduled for March 15, 2024, at the Prague 7 Municipal Hall to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders regarding potential security enhancements.

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