Yakutsk's Sportivny district races ahead with accelerated urban renewal plan
The Sportivny microdistrict project in Yakutsk is moving ahead at a faster pace than originally planned. What began in 2023 as a decade-long scheme has now been sped up, with major construction work set to start soon. The initiative aims to relocate residents from unsafe buildings while creating a modern urban space with schools, sports facilities, and green areas. The project covers several neighbourhoods known collectively as the historic '17th Block'. These include areas 2A, 2B, 2V, 4A, 4B, 4V, and the original 17th Block itself. A key goal is to move residents from 160 condemned apartment buildings into new housing by 2030, following a direct order from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
One of the first major steps was completed in Block 2B, where 95 apartments across six buildings were successfully vacated. The developer leading the work, RIA, is headed by Liya Shainurova. Negotiations with major contractors like Yakutskenergo and Vodokanal are now in the final stages, paving the way for physical construction to begin. Federal funding through the Treasury Infrastructure Loan is supporting the development. Plans include two new kindergartens, a school, and multiple recreation zones. Workout complexes and entertainment areas will also be built, transforming the district into a modern living space.
The accelerated timeline means residents will be relocated sooner than expected. New housing, schools, and sports facilities are set to replace the condemned buildings. With federal backing and contracts nearly finalised, the project is on track to reshape the area by the end of the decade.
