The Masovian Voivodeship Office has announced the disbursement of funds for the implementation of a key element of defensive infrastructure in Otwock. Voivode Mariusz Frankowski has transferred 2.5 million PLN from his ten-percent allocation under the Civil Protection and Civil Defense Program (OLiOC). The funds will be allocated to the Otwock Specialist Hospital Independent Public Healthcare Facility and will be used to prepare design and cost estimate documentation for the construction of a new shelter.
The planned facility will be capable of accommodating approximately 600 people. According to the assumptions, 50% of its capacity will be allocated to the protection of the city's residents, as well as hospital patients and staff. The shelter is to be single-story and underground, and its structure assumes dual application: a protective function during crises and basic medical support. This configuration allows for the quick and safe transfer of patients from the medical facility to the shelter in case of threat.
The location of the facility has been selected to maximize benefits for the local community. The shelter is to be built in the close vicinity of the Specialist Hospital, but also in the immediate proximity of other important institutions. Within the operational radius of the planned object are the Economic and Gastronomic School Complex, the Public City Library, Primary School No. 3, and a branch of the Mazovia Applied Sciences Academy in Otwock. The placement in this location makes it possible to provide quick shelter not only to patients but also to children, youth, and local residents.
The investment preparation process began in 2025, when initial conceptual work started. The current stage includes the execution of detailed design documentation and cost estimates. The construction schedule has been postponed due to legal changes. The amendment to the act from June 2026 allows for the financing of the construction of collective protection facilities on a multi-year basis, under the 2027–2032 program. In connection with this, the physical commencement of construction work is planned for next year. This project aligns with the government priority of building regional resilience by creating modern protective infrastructure.