The shopping center Origo, in cooperation with the Riga City Council, law enforcement institutions and social partners, continues purposeful work to strengthen public order and develop the surrounding area. At the initiative of Origo, a meeting was held with representatives of the Riga City Council leadership, the State Police, the Riga Municipal Police, and other partners to discuss current issues related to public space management, safety, and infrastructure development, as well as to evaluate the results of cooperation so far in ensuring public order in the neighborhood.
“The Riga Central Business District is currently undergoing dynamic transformation, with several major projects already completed or actively developing, including development of the Rail Baltica infrastructure. With the arrival of new business initiatives, the area is becoming increasingly attractive not only for city residents and visitors but also for investors. Therefore, maintaining public order and developing public infrastructure are essential prerequisites for the successful future of this territory. Our shared goal is to make the Riga Central Business District one of the most modern and competitive business districts in the Baltics, providing long-term benefits for both entrepreneurs and the city as a whole,” emphasizes Evija Majevska, Commercial Director of Linstow Baltic and the Origo multifunctional centre.
To ensure that this area continues to evolve into a safe, modern, and investor-friendly environment, close cooperation between the municipality, law enforcement institutions and the private sector is essential. We highly value the cooperation achieved so far, but this territory still requires increased attention - improving public infrastructure, including pedestrian tunnels and adjacent areas, which will help to promote public order and safety. The development of this district is a strategic investment that will foster business growth, attract investment and improve the experience of both residents and visitors.
“This neighborhood is one of the most significant intersections of traffic and pedestrian flows in Riga. Positive and constructive cooperation with businesses is a key prerequisite for ensuring that this area develops in a high-quality and resident-friendly way. Together, we can make sure that the public infrastructure here is properly maintained and continuously improved, while preserving accessibility and convenience for both Riga’s residents and visitors. This neighborhood has great development potential – it can become not only a modern hub for transport, commerce, and services, but also an attractive, safe, and vibrant urban space that strengthens Riga’s image as a contemporary European metropolis,” says Edvards Ratnieks, Deputy Chairman of the Riga City Council.
During the meeting, particular attention was devoted to issues of public infrastructure and urban environment quality, including the need to improve the worn-out pedestrian underpass (tunnels) on 13. Janvara Street and the surrounding areas, which currently create social risks and reduce the sense of security for residents and visitors. Special attention was also paid to ensuring cleanliness and order around a privately owned, uninhabited building where a gambling hall previously operated. Only a unified approach to improving these areas will promote the development of the neighborhood and ensure public order.
Since the beginning of 2024, Origo has held multiple meetings with the Riga City Municipality and law enforcement institutions, calling for active measures to maintain public order in the Riga Central Railway Station area. During this time, several preventive measures have been implemented, including intensified operational work by the State Police and Riga Municipal Police, regular patrols and inspections of the area, as well as State Police checks and other actions aimed at improving public order and safety.
To foster social dialogue in maintaining public order, in June this year, the association Resiliences centrs opened a representation called Resiliences Pietura in the railway Station section of Origo. Its aim is to provide informational support and promote social integration, focusing on young people at behavioral risk. It serves as a place where one can learn about the association’s programs and activities, as well as receive information on Riga City Municipality’s social support services and their availability.
At the end of the meeting, participants visited the Resiliences Pietura and agreed to continue close cooperation and regular information exchange to ensure both public order and sustainable development of the area, making this neighborhood one of Riga’s most modern and attractive centers in the future.
Additional information: Maija Dulle-Sūniņa, Public Relations Representative maija.dulle@mrsgrupa.lv