The North-South Magistrala is a citywide thoroughfare that runs through the central historic district of Prague, connecting cultural and public buildings, administrative buildings, residential areas, as well as parks and squares. Nevertheless, it currently serves only as a traffic artery for automobile traffic, even though its potential allows it to fulfill other roles as well—that of an urban boulevard of citywide and local significance. Realizing this potential aligns with the current needs of Prague’s residents, a significant portion of whom encounter the thoroughfare daily on foot or via public transportation, yet their needs have not been addressed to date.

The goal of the concept is to gradually transform the North-South Magistrala into an urban boulevard that connects people, areas, and functions. It aims to identify and realize its potential in the life of the city in a way that is comfortably integrated with its current transportation function. The concept consists of two parts: the first, analytical part addresses the broader context to facilitate a more informed dialogue about the potential and challenges of the North-South Magistrala. The second part defines a strategy that will lead to the realization of the vision “the arterial road connects.”

Above all, the concept presents a general approach, principles, and a strategy for addressing issues related to the public space along the North-South Magistrala. It outlines gradual modifications as well as a long-term vision for its future direction, taking into account the current state and development of transportation, services, and amenities, as well as the character and quality of the environment.

The concept primarily proposes a conceptual strategy for its gradual transformation. It is therefore anticipated that the modifications will be implemented in phases over the short-, medium-, and long-term. The short-term modifications are designed so as not to be contingent on reducing traffic capacity for motor vehicles; nevertheless, they are intended to bring about the necessary revitalization of these areas and improve the street space and adjacent squares, making them more pleasant places to walk, shop, and live.