See how the Neris coasts have changed over five years: Vilnius shares historic shots
« The renovation work carried out in recent years has undoubtedly turned the Neris embankments into one of the city attractions that connect recreation, active leisure and community. This is a special and potential of the capital, as nature and the city blend.
Updated right quay – more comfort, leisure and rest options
The first phase of the reconstruction during 2019-2023. was implemented on the right bank of the Neris River. The project was aimed not only to improve infrastructure, but also to encourage the growth of community activities, increase the employment of the population and provide more favorable conditions for business development. The works were carried out in four sections, from the Green Bridge to Baravyko Street, from Tuskulėnai Manor to Žirmūnai Bridge, from Žirmūnai Bridge to Mindaugas Bridge and from Mindaugas Bridge to the Green Bridge.
These areas include pedestrian and bicycle paths, rest terraces, renovated slopes, formed greenery, modern lighting and rainwater system, small architectural elements. The active leisure areas have also been updated, created for seasonal outdoor cafes, and infrastructure adapted to people with disabilities and families with young children – additional ramps and descent.
There are also several exclusive objects on the right, which have become attraction points for both the local residents and the guests of the city. This is where the only such skate park in the Baltic States is equipped with a professional sand volleyball area, as well as a modern climbing wall.
Photo by S. looks
The reconstruction of the left embankment accelerated
2021 The reconstruction works began on the left waterfront of the Neris River, from Žvėrynas to Antakalnis Šilo Bridge accesses.
During the first phase, two sections have already been renovated, from Žvėrynas to the White Bridge and from Vilnelė to Šilo Bridge. During the second stage, the territories are managed between white and Vilnelė bridges. 2024. In March, the contract work on the section from the Vilnelė to the Green Bridge should be completed this summer, and from the Green to the White Bridge 2027. IV quarterly.
When managing the left side of the quay, bicycle and pedestrian paths and stairs, landing on the river are reconstructed and newly installed, small architectural elements, modernized lighting and stormwater system, managed and formed new greenery, and installed terraces.
The final stage is from the Green to the White Bridge
The final stage of the reconstruction of the Neris embankment will cover the area between the Green and the White Bridges on the side of A. Goštauto Street.
This section provides for pedestrian and bicycle paths, greenery, modern lighting. The contact network infrastructure, public transport stops and traffic infrastructure elements: pedestrian and cycling crossings, security islands will also be installed. It is planned to build a two-way Red asphalt bicycle path, which will be integrated into a common network of city bicycle paths, connecting with adjacent Neris embankment tracks and routes extending along J. Tumo-Vaižganto Street.
New pedestrian paths will connect the city center to the River River. Pedestrian and bicycle paths will be separated from the street’s carriageway greenery strips. At the intersections with J. Tumo-Vaižgantas, A. Jakšto and A. Vienuolio streets, there will be ramps and stairs to allow residents to reach the quay and new recreation areas.
This and earlier stages of the Neris embankment were implemented by the Vilnius Development Company.
Photo by S. looks
What does the townspeople lack on the coasts?
The Vilnius City Municipality conducted a study in March to find out what services and infrastructure Vilnius residents lack the Neris coast. According to the population, toilets, water columns and benches, as well as hammocks, swings, loungers, shade spaces and natural nature are lacking on the coast. Some of Vilnius residents who participated in the survey would like more cafes, restaurants and better lighting.
Most survey participants view the Neris coasts as an important place in the city. The residents of Vilnius spend time walking, cycling, admiring city views and nature, communicating, eating or engaging in individual sports. Most of the coastline is visited in summer, spring and autumn, and less frequently in winter.
