Riga Bypass Reconstruction Delayed, Traffic Overloaded

The Riga bypass, designed to allow drivers to bypass the city, has long been unable to fulfill its function. Traffic intensity continues to increase, and the highway is operating at its capacity limit, creating safety risks and inconvenience. Although this project has been considered a priority for years, its progress has stalled.

Initially, it was promised that the major reconstruction would start in 2026, but that has not happened. There is currently no clarity on when work will actually begin, and even the most optimistic forecasts suggest that construction may not start until after 2030. Kristaps Kauliņš, director of the Riga City Council's Department of Outdoor Space and Mobility, notes that the bypass's capacity is exhausted and driving through the city takes as long as using the bypass.