Kutná Hora Launches Major Flood-Prevention Overhaul of the Vrchlice River

One of the largest construction projects to hit Kutná Hora in recent years is getting underway in the town's historic centre — a full-scale reconstruction of the Vrchlice riverbed. The work is designed to protect the town from what is known as a "hundred-year flood," a catastrophic flood event that, statistically, occurs roughly once every century.

"The Vrchlice project is one of the biggest investments awaiting us in the coming years. It's a technically demanding and, at the same time, sensitive undertaking, since it runs right through the historic centre and will affect the lives of people who live or work here," said Kutná Hora Mayor Lukáš Seifert (ODS). He noted that the project will ultimately deliver a safer area, a well-designed public space, and significantly better flood protection for the town.

Construction to Disrupt Entire Streets

Crews will be working in difficult terrain with limited access to the site, meaning the project will inevitably affect neighbouring streets, traffic flow, parking, and access to some homes. For residents of Potoční, Pod Barborou, and Pod Hrádkem streets, the town has arranged 27 temporary parking spaces — located at Náprstkova, on Šmídovská Street, and in the Broyer Gardens park. Every household within the construction zone will be allocated one parking spot.

"We know the first few months — and gradually the later stages of construction as well — won't be easy for residents. That's why we'll keep providing updated information and looking for solutions to specific situations as they arise during the work. We're in constant contact with the residents directly affected by the construction," the mayor added.

A River with a History of Flooding

The Vrchlice River originates near the village of Štiplice, flows through Kutná Hora, and joins the Klejnárka River near Nové Dvory. The town has previously repaired a retaining wall along the Vrchlice that was damaged by flooding.

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Source: ekolist.cz