The renovation of Ferenciek tere kicks off this November within the course of Budapest’s New Main Street-project. The whole process will take approximately two years, will result in changes in traffic operations,and will grant pedestrians the opportunity to prefer crosswalks to underpasses, thus creating a a more convenient and livable downtown area. Ferenciek tere returns to its roots to become a plaza once again.
The project will show its effects not only on Ferenciek tere, but also on the surroundings thereof, including Március 15. tér (15th of March Square) and the ramp leading up to Erzsébet híd (Elizabeth Bridge), with the latter providing an easier and direct access to Buda, while also reducing the neigbourhood’s noise- and air pollution.
According to the renovation plans, the space surrendered to vehicles will be significantly reduced, giving life to better surface routes for pedestrains, which will also serve as alternatives for underpasses. All in all, Ferenciek tere will morph into an aesthetic, lively plaza with lots of greens.
The changes in traffic operation include the closing of the Y-shaped vehicle underpass, which will be joined together with the already existing pedestrian underpass, planting the seeds of brand new shopping, walking, and bike-riding opportunities. Moreover, to raise the efficiency of public transport, the bus lane swirling towards Keleti Pályaudvar (Eastern Railway Station), and its platform, will be moved to the middle of the road, reducing the probability of traffic jams. Check out BKV’s website for more information.
Sources: MTI, BKK
