On 21 August, a new section of pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure was officially opened in Jelgava municipality along the state regional road Jelgava–Dobele–Annenieki (P97), from Būriņi road to the turn to Viesturciems (km 8.83–10.34). The event was attended by Minister of Transport Atis Švinka, Chairman of the Board of SJSC Latvijas Valsts ceļi (LVC) Mārtiņš Lazdovskis, Board Member of Vianova Ltd Amanda Bārene, Chairman of Jelgava City Council Mārtiņš Daģis, and Chairman of Jelgava municipality Council Ingus Zālītis.
Minister of Transport Atis Švinka emphasized: “The new road section will improve mobility for the residents of Viesturciems. It is important to maintain funding for road construction so that such projects can continue to be implemented. I would like to thank the builders for their contribution and Latvijas Valsts ceļi for undertaking and realizing the project.”
Chairman of the Board of LVC Mārtiņš Lazdovskis: “A few years ago, criteria for planning and constructing pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure were developed, and based on them we created a micromobility plan that we are implementing as much as possible. Each year we build new sections for those who travel on foot, by bicycle or other means of transport, connecting populated areas with each other. It is a pleasure and a satisfaction to see that these paths are being used – expanding mobility opportunities and promoting an active lifestyle. Many thanks to the designers, builders, and colleagues who worked to achieve the results we see today.”
The newly built pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure is 1.5 km long, illuminated, and has an asphalt concrete surface. Together with the previously built section from Būriņi road to Jelgava, vulnerable road users now have a safe route from Jelgava to Tušķi, Aizupe School, and Viesturciems.
A safe railway crossing has also been built, as well as access to the pair of bus stops Ūzas and tactile paving guidelines at the existing bus stop platforms, the railway crossing, and road access (driveway) crossings. Where the pedestrian and cycling path approaches the P97 road, safety barriers have been installed and pedestrian safety barriers have been added. In addition, culverts have been cleaned and repaired, and ditches outside the road right-of-way have also been improved. In areas with a high groundwater level, drainage systems with catchpits have been constructed.
The works were carried out by Vianova Ltd for a contracted price of EUR 1,060,901.10 (incl. VAT). The project was designed by Ceļuprojekts JSC, and construction supervision was provided by ACM Projekts Ltd. The project was implemented with co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The ERDF covers 85% of the total costs, amounting to EUR 901,765.94.
