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Riga Port Master Plan

Promoting sustainable mobility choices along Riga Port City’s waterfront

Sector

Civic & Public

Region

Europe

Timespan

2020

Credit: Hosoya Schaefer Architects & Eeter

Riga Port City is undergoing a significant transformation from a former industrial harbor into a vibrant urban district that blends historic architecture with sustainable living. With an ambitious goal of achieving a people-first waterfront, Riga Port City engaged Gehl to develop a mobility strategy and co-lead public realm design.

Credit: Hosoya Schaefer Architects & Eeter
Credit: Hosoya Schaefer Architects & Eeter

A model for sustainable urban living

Waterfront developments like Riga Port City often face the challenge of balancing urban growth with sustainability. To address this, innovative mobility approaches that reduce car reliance and encourage sustainable daily behaviors are essential. Gehl joined the Riga Port City masterplanning team, consisting of Hosoya Schaefer Architects AG, ĒTER, and 1:1 Landskab, and identified an opportunity to implement a new mobility strategy prioritizing pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport.

Gehl established Eksporta Street as a key sustainable transport corridor, introduced a grid of slow streets to create safer, more pedestrian-friendly environments, and developed the ‘Riga Block’ concept to enhance public life. These efforts were supported by a flexible street network designed to evolve with the district, integrating essential public spaces and mobility hubs for a cohesive urban experience.

The site became the focal point for this new mobility approach, aiming to reduce car trips by 25% and promote a lifestyle centered around soft mobility — walking, cycling, taking the tram, and enjoying cleaner air.

Credit: Hosoya Schaefer Architects & Eeter

‘People-first’ includes you

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