Dálnice D4 is the first PPP project in the Czech Republic that was realized in this form. The state does not have to cover the construction and maintenance of the highway at the same time, but can do so gradually over 25 years. “It's like leasing a car. If you have the cash, you can pay immediately or choose to spread the expenses over time.
After 25 years have passed, the highway will be returned to the state, in accordance with certain technical standards," explained Borovka. What makes this model advantageous is that the state can also invest in other areas, for example in education and healthcare. The total cost of construction was approximately 11.5 billion kroner, and the project includes the construction of 32 kilometers of new highway and the renovation of 16.5 kilometers of track sections. "The state will repay approximately 1.3 billion crowns annually, which includes the costs of operation, maintenance and financing," said Borovka. One of the key elements of this PPP project is quality, but speed is also an important aspect during construction. “Financial institutions that support these initiatives put pressure on us to deliver efficiently and on time. In addition, we have an obligation to keep the highway in a passable condition, because our salaries depend on motorists being able to use the road section without any problems," he explained.
Highway safety is monitored by 195 cameras capable of identifying problems on the road. "The primary task of cameras is to increase traffic safety. If, for example, a vehicle stops, the system immediately signals it to the dispatcher, who can immediately assess and handle the situation," said Borovka. Although the cameras are technically capable of measuring speed, Borovka emphasized: "I'm not aware of any designated sections at this time, and we haven't ordered any signs." According to current regulations, the maximum permitted speed on the new road section is expected to be 130 km/h. "We have to admit that the highway is already designed and built in its current form. If we wanted to change it to 150 km/h, this should have been introduced three years earlier. This means safety issues and compliance with the appropriate curves. I believe it is too late to start this debate. There are parts where this would be feasible, but the final decision must be made by the Ministry of Transport and approved by the Czech Police," said the director of Vinci Construction. Regarding the payment system, the state will collect classic tolls from trucks and sell highway stickers. "For the average user, there will be no significant difference between public roads and privately owned highways," he added.