Old Riga to undergo extensive street renovations worth nearly €12 million
By 2029, Old Riga will see major street renovations, replacing cobblestones and installing storm drainage. Business owners worry about reduced visitor flow.
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The Riga City Council plans to carry out extensive renovation works in Old Riga over the next three years. The project involves replacing worn-out cobblestones with historically accurate, polished cobblestones collected from other Riga streets, as well as installing a storm drainage system, upgrading utility networks, and adding new lighting, street furniture, greenery, and signage.
The renovations will affect several streets, including the area around Vaļņu and Kaļķu streets. The municipality promises that by 2029, the streets will become more accessible for pedestrians and people with mobility impairments.
However, local business owners are cautious, fearing that prolonged construction will reduce visitor numbers and negatively impact their revenues. The city council acknowledges the inconvenience but emphasizes that the reconstruction is long overdue.
The total cost of the project is estimated at nearly €12 million, with €5 million coming from the European Regional Development Fund. The remaining funds will be covered by the Riga municipality and the utility company "Rīgas ūdens".
