Promoting micromobility in Riga

The city of Riga has set a goal to reduce CO2 pollution by 22% by the year 2027, in part by establishing a Low Emission Zone and encouraging greater use of micromobility solutions. Many Riga residents continue to rely on private cars for their daily commute. Consequently, there is considerable congestion, noise and air pollution. Considering the limited street space in the city centre, the aim is to increase the use of micromobility solutions on Barona Street. Currently the modal split for micromobility is relatively low, with space and safety challenges acting as barriers to uptake. The Barona Street area needs improvement to existing infrastructure, dedicated lanes for micromobility, and storage facilities along the street and adjoining squares.

Novality will pilot its solar powered parking facility as part of the project. The parking facility will be equipped with private lockers with space for helmets and private belongings; charging ports; and an app to check availability. The bikes’ handlebars will be intercalated at two heights, allowing 10 bikes or scooters to be stored in an optimised space measuring just 5m x 2m. Novality will provide city authorities with data-driven tools to design the expansion of parking stations based on micromobility flows that can also be part of a common public transport network with the same tariff and ticketing policy.