With funds from the European Regional Development Fund acquired by the Ministry of Culture, one of the main streets in Old Riga, Vaļņu Street, will soon undergo major changes.
The European Union's funding programme, implemented by the Ministry of Culture, supports investments in cultural buildings as well as within the urban environment of Old Riga, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Riga City Council will carry out improvements on Valņu Street to create a more comfortable environment for pedestrians. Valņu Street is one of the main arteries of Old Riga, connecting the bus station with various cultural institutions, and is a key destination for tourists visiting the area.
Inese Andersone, Head of Riga City Development Committee at Riga City council: “We believe that investing in the urban environment and street renovations will send a strong signal to small businesses in Old Riga to establish restaurants, cafes and various service venues for both local residents and tourists.
These investments will be crucial for the revitalisation of Old Riga. Pēteris Ratas, Riga City Architect: “As an architect and city resident, I want to see Valņu Street transformed into a welcoming urban environment. Let it become our living space, with high-quality street surfaces, and wider, smoother sidewalks that make walking more convenient for everyone.
With pleasant lighting, attractive and clear signage, and convenient amenities, the street will become part of our living space. It must be lively, with amenities and greenery that fit the context of Old Riga because Old Riga is the heart of our city, representing our identity and serving as the centre of our culture. We want to shape it in a way that makes us happy to be there and leaves our city’s guests delighted to experience it.”
Reconstruction and improvement of the Vaļņu Street and its surroundings
