chodník

Chodník is the pedestrian walkway alongside a street or road, separated from the vehicle lanes by a curb or by landscaping. The term distinguishes the outdoor path used by pedestrians from the roadway and from private or informal footpaths. It is commonly found in urban and suburban settings, and may also appear along rural roads in towns. The name derives from the verb chodit, meaning “to walk.”

Chodníky are designed to provide safe, accessible space for pedestrians. They run along most streets and may connect to intersections via crosswalks (přechod pro chodce). Some sidewalks are shared with cyclists in designated lanes or zones, while others are separate cycle paths. In towns, their width varies with traffic, street function, and local planning practices; in residential areas they are often narrower than on major streets.

Construction and maintenance vary, but common materials include concrete, asphalt, and paving stones. Chodníky are typically built with drainage features, level surfaces, curb ramps at intersections for wheelchair users, and sometimes tactile paving to aid visually impaired pedestrians. Adequate lighting and regular maintenance are standard to ensure safety and usability.

Ownership and responsibility for chodníky usually lie with municipalities or local authorities, which oversee construction, upkeep, snow removal, and enforcement of rules that prevent obstruction by parked cars or construction zones. Safety considerations include preventing slip hazards in wet or icy conditions and managing interactions with cyclists, street vendors, and other users.

Etymology and usage note: the term chodník should not be confused with chodba (corridor inside a building) or stezka (a rural or scenic path).