Rákospalota’s key transport corridor could be revitalised using the ‘Sponge City’ approach

For those who regularly travel in the 15th district, there is hardly any need to explain the BKK’s most recent public procurement tender: Rákos út, which handles traffic on numerous north-south routes – including bus services 5, 96, 124 and 296 – is in the firing line. As the developer’s announcement emphasises: the road surface is cracked, the pavements and kerbs are worn, whilst pedestrian and cycle links are also lacking in several places.

According to the design tender published on TED, the section between Széchenyi út and Arany János utca is to be renovated, covering a distance of 1.1 kilometres.

One of the key considerations in the design is the retention of rainwater: when designing green spaces, the prospective designer is required to apply both the ‘sponge city’ concept and the Stockholm method.

Pavements and cycling infrastructure also need to be improved 

The complex nature of the project is indicated by the fact that, in addition to simply replacing the flooring, a complete, wall-to-wall refurbishment is required. The extent of the project’s complexity is also illustrated by the following list: the technical preparations must cover

• to reinforce and completely renew the road structure,
• the refurbishment of pavements,
• the potential for developing cycling infrastructure,
• as well as making bus stops and pedestrian routes accessible.

They also take the views of local people into account

In addition, consideration must be given to road safety at junctions, parking arrangements, street lighting, public utilities and the expansion of green spaces, whilst ensuring the protection of existing trees. The project preparations also cover cycle routes along the section of Széchenyi út between Rákos út and Mozdonyvezető utca.

BKK has already held public consultations and site visits as part of the project’s preparatory work. The design contract is expected to be awarded in March 2027, whilst the planned deadline for the completion of the final tender documentation is June 2028.