D3 in South Bohemia: First sections expected to open in 2026

The expansion of the D3 motorway in South Bohemia is progressing. Initial sections could be opened to traffic in the coming months, with full completion planned for 2027.

Construction of the D3 motorway in the south of the Czech Republic continues to advance at a steady pace. Transport Minister Ivan Bednárik reviewed progress on Tuesday during an inspection visit to the Kaplice-nádraží – Nažidla and Nažidla – Dolní Dvořiště sections.

Despite some technical challenges, the Road and Motorway Directorate (ŘSD) is sticking to its schedule. According to the plan, the first part of the Kaplice-nádraží – Nažidla section is expected to be put into operation by the end of this year. The cross-border section between Nažidla and Dolní Dvořiště could be opened to traffic as early as this summer. Full completion of the D3 in South Bohemia is currently planned for mid-2027.

Foto: Ministerstvo dopravy ČR

According to Bednárik, these are structurally demanding projects. On the approximately twelve-kilometre section between Kaplice-nádraží and Nažidla alone, a total of 13 bridge structures are being built. Despite the complexity, the minister expressed confidence that around nine kilometres of the route could be opened this year.

On the Kaplice-nádraží – Nažidla section, where planning began in 2008 and construction started in June 2024, intensive work is currently under way on both the bridges and the route itself. The bridges will reach a total length of more than 2.6 kilometres, including major structures such as the viaducts near Zdíky and Suchdol. The first construction phase up to Kaplice is expected to be completed earlier than originally planned, while the second stage towards Nažidla is scheduled for 2027.

Foto: Ministerstvo dopravy ČR

The adjoining Nažidla – Dolní Dvořiště section, measuring 3.2 kilometres, is also already at an advanced stage. In addition to two bridges, the project includes an interchange intended to ensure connections to Dolní Dvořiště and Vyšší Brod.

In the long term, the D3 is to connect to Austria’s S10 expressway (Mühlviertel Expressway). On the Austrian side, the Freistadt-Nord – Rainbach section is currently under construction, with completion planned for next year. The further section up to the state border remains in the planning phase and, according to current expectations, could be realised around 2032.