Before construction begins subway in Krakow it is necessary to prepare the documentation and obtain the necessary permits. By the end of next year the city plans to select the first contractor 6 kilometer stage.
Environmental decision
Krakow is currently waiting environmental decision referring to the first phase of construction, which could be completed in the first quarter of 2025. Within the scope of this phase, the construction of a tunnel is planned that will allow the future operation of the metro.
Mayor of Krakow, Aleksander Miszalski, emphasizes that the construction of the metro is a priority for the city. The concept of underground trams was abandoned in favor of a heavy metro. Miszalski emphasizes that starting the construction of the metro was one of the main commitments of his election campaign. The city is actively looking for sources of financing and cooperates with Metro Warszawskie.
Benefits of subway construction
Stanisław Mazur, the deputy mayor responsible for the construction of the metro, emphasizes that the metro will solve many of Krakow’s problems. It will improve safety, comfort and travel time, connect peripheral neighborhoods and help combat… air pollution. Modern and fast public transport is crucial for the development of the city and for encouraging sustainable transport.
Construction costs of the first metro line
The total cost of building the first metro line, comprising three stages with a total length of approximately 26 km, will be approximately PLN 13 billion. An additional amount of approx. is allocated for the purchase of rolling stock. PLN 1.5 billion.
It is planned to establish cooperation with Krakow universities, such as: Krakow University of Technology,AGH University of Science and Technology and University of Economics. Together with other experts, a Scientific and Technical Council for the construction of the metro will be created. Thanks to this, and with the active participation of residents, a decision on environmental conditions is expected to be obtained by the middle of next year, and by the end of the year a contractor will be selected and a contract for the development of the project, documentation and implementation decisions will be completed.
Project financing
Stanisław Mazur, Vice President, emphasized that the central section of the metro will be financed exclusively by public funds. The next phases could be implemented within the framework of a public-private partnership, with the dominant participation of public funds, including the state budget, EU funds, funds from a private investor and funds from the municipality of Krakow. He considers the metro “an answer and a solution to Krakow’s biggest problems”.