Riga's Vaļņu Street to become pedestrian-friendly zone: reconstruction plans and timeline

One of the longest and busiest streets in Riga's Old Town, Vaļņu Street, is set for a significant transformation. According to Riga's public outdoor space development project, the approximately 600-meter-long street from Smilšu Street to 13. janvāra Street will be redesigned as a pedestrian-friendly area. The project also includes Teātra Square, 1991. gada barikāžu Square, Meistaru Street, and other adjacent areas.

The municipal plan involves building new pedestrian infrastructure, renovating the street surface by combining historic cobblestones with modern solutions to improve accessibility—especially for people with strollers or high heels. Partial reconstruction of utility networks, new lighting, and greenery are also planned.

Pēteris Ratas, Riga's chief architect, stated in the program "PULSS" that the goal is to make the Old Town a pleasant pedestrian environment, similar to other European old towns. Vaļņu Street was chosen as the starting point because it crosses the entire Old Town and is a key connection.

Traffic organization will be a compromise: the street will prioritize pedestrians but will not be completely closed to vehicles. Access for deliveries will be maintained, but the number of parking spaces will be reduced.

Mārtiņš Slimbahs from Riga City Council's Outdoor Space and Mobility Department explained that the main challenge is the reconstruction of underground utilities, including stormwater drainage. The project will begin with a procurement process within the next three months, followed by about a year of design work. Actual construction could start in summer 2027, with completion required by the end of 2029.

The total budget is €11.9 million: €5 million from the European Regional Development Fund, €3.8 million from Riga municipality, and €3.1 million from the municipal water company "Rīgas ūdens".