Public Spaces Program called PrieStory in Slovak was launched in 2005 as a brand new concept in Slovakia. It is based on the US program - Project for Public Spaces, that has been adjusted to Slovak conditions.

Program endeavors to reach two main goals. The first, more visible one is to revitalize neglected public spaces and transform them into vital meeting places. The second goal, less visible but very important from our point of view, is to involve people living in the neighborhood, surrounding blocks of flats or streets in the planning of this reconstruction. In other words - people assist not just corporeally in reconstruction of the place itself, but also (and foremost ) they come up with the idea of how the place should look, what kind of functions it should serve etc. The program methodology is subordinated to these two goals and strong planning and communication components (e.g. public meetings, planning weekends, campaigns, presentation of proposals etc.) have to be incorporated into the supported projects. Through the active participation of the citizens in planning and the revitalization of public spaces we increase their interest in public affairs and help local leaders to activate other citizens in the locality.

Goal of the Program

Involvement of citizens in their environment improvement, increasing their participation in public affairs and strengthening their communities.

Public Spaces Program 2011

The renovation of public spaces in towns and villages, which were destroyed by floods or landslides this year is the topic of 7th year of Public Spaces Program. By 5,500 € there can be supported the civic groups, NGOs and municipalities in an open competition. The applicants will obtain,  except for financial support for the project, also technical help and assistance by realisation. The deadline is October, 5, 2010.

Eligible Applicants

NGOs with relevant mission and informal groups of citizens.
The program in 2011 supports also municipalities or other institutions.

The advisory board will have chosen from all applications 10 finalists by October, 22, 2010. They will have an opportunity to finish their applications before November, 25, 2010.

5 of them will gain the support of 5,500 €. The spaces should be reconstructed and opened for public before December, 31, 2011.  

Supported Activities and Outcomes

Program provides necessary education and technical assistance to selected applicants (advice on public participation, meetings facilitation, basic help in methodology for architects participating in the projects, etc.) as well as financial support.

The expected outcomes of the projects:

• revitalized and frequently visited public spaces serving the local communities (children playgrounds, resting zones, theater and concert open air stage etc.).
• active local citizens, who continue meeting and are able to cooperate in further interesting and valuable tasks.

Detailed information

Actual calls for proposals, evaluation criteria and process, maximum grant amount, etc. are available in Slovak at the program’s web page: http://www.priestory.sk/