Five months into the year, the capital of Ukraine finally has a budget. Kyiv will spend about USD 1.8 billion (Hr 14.65 billion). That's approximately USD 500 million (Hr 4.25 billion) that is less than last year, with a budget deficit of USD 5 million (Hr 40 million).

But Deputy Mayor Denys Bass noted the quantity is enough to finish some major road and bridge projects, as well as make other improvements in public transportation.

"We are pretty satisfied with this year's budget as it contains funds for very important constructions in the capital," Bass added. "I am glad to say we even got money to start reconstruction of Kyiv roads like Peremohy [Prospect] and Bazhana [Prospect], which haven't been reconstructed for up to 30 years."

And come next winter, Bass admitted Kyiv residents should notice better snowplowing. The snow-laden roads and sidewalks last year, in combination with heavy snowfalls, proved to be a great irritation for city residents.

Bass added city officials are responding to the complaints. "Taking into account the problem we had with cleaning up Kyiv from snow this winter, we are to spend Hr 80 million on purchasing street-cleaning vehicles," Bass said.

"As well this year, we have plans to finish Podilsky Bridge, open three new city train stations and finish the construction of three new [metro] subway stations to Teremky by New Year," Bass added.

Bass mentioned the city will install better traffic management systems to help ease jams. A new high-speed tram will also open, connecting the city's main railway station with Borshchahivka, a famous residential district southwest of the city center.