The reconstruction of the Mūkusalas Street promenade in Riga is nearing completion, with municipal officials expecting the project to be finished by the end of November. The upgraded riverside route in Pārdaugava is intended to make the Daugava embankment more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and local residents.
According to Riga municipality representatives, the final works are now taking place in the pedestrian tunnel under Mūkusalas Street. The tunnel will include built-in lighting and, in some places, anti-graffiti surfaces. The surrounding pedestrian environment is also being significantly improved. Where there were previously stairs, a new accessible connection to Mūkusalas Street has been created, allowing easier movement towards AB Dam and the promenade.
The pavement has been widened, and part of the road space in the tunnel area has been narrowed to provide a more comfortable pedestrian route. Officials say this should resolve earlier problems with narrow sidewalks and water accumulation.
Along the promenade, from AB Dam to the Mūkusalas roundabout, around 60 yellow rescue ladders have been installed by the water. These are designed to help people climb out if they fall into the Daugava. Lifebuoys are also expected to be added. The illuminated promenade will include children’s play areas, swings and toilets. Historic railings along the riverbank have been restored, with Soviet-era symbols removed.
However, not all planned elements will be completed immediately. A pedestrian and cycling bridge under the Stone Bridge, originally intended to connect both sides of the promenade, will not be built as part of this project. It must be redesigned and may be constructed later, potentially during future Stone Bridge repairs.
Urban mobility group “City for People” has broadly welcomed the project, saying the riverside area has been improved and the river made more accessible. However, it noted that some sections, particularly near the Kīleveina canal, will remain difficult for cyclists and people with reduced mobility.
The project cost is around €20 million.
