Residents of Tomsk Region Decide on What and How to Develop

Revamped Version:

Tomsk, 24 Apr - RIA Tomsk. The voting process for territories set to undergo renovations in 2026 as part of the new national project "Infrastructure for Life" has kicked off in Tomsk region. Residents are invited to choose from 61 proposed projects spanning various cities and districts. Read more about it in this RIA Tomsk article.

What are we voting on?

According to Alexey Konдraтьев, Tomsk region's deputy governor for construction and architecture, the voting process encompasses 61 projects. Thirty-five are new spaces set to begin renovation, while 26 are design proposals for ongoing renovation of public spaces.

For instance, in Tomsk contenders include territories near the ДК "Томский перекресток", Lytkin square, Yangilov, the territory near the Academic Lyceum on Vaivilov Street, and the settlement of Sputnik. In total, residents will select 43 winning projects whose territories will see renovation in 2026.

"Our aim is to have modern spaces in all cities and districts of the region. Sometimes this could be a children’s playground, other times a relaxation area by the water or a concert stage. Each of these spots matters to the locals," Konдraтьев noted.

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"We always ask questions: How do people currently use this space? What do they want? We hold workshops, polls, online discussions. This helps us get a clear picture - of problems, but also potential. Only then, based on that, do architectural solutions emerge," shared Olga Kupritz, the project's lead architect.

The development process entails a preliminary analysis: terrain, utilities, norms. Architects carefully select elements to ensure it serves its intended purpose. Even bench designs and trash cans differ: some need strong materials to prevent vandalism, while others cater to seniors with spine-friendly designs. Children's playgrounds aim to be both engaging and edifying, while lighting is modern and safe.

"We often hear: well, just some new pavement and benches. But even in these elements, there's a wealth of nuances. For example, in the Pushkin Park, the pavement features tributes to fairy tales, while in the Red Barracks, the style is historically inspired. You just need to look closely," Kupritz added.

For 2026, the City Development Center plans to install interactive installations and musical zones in Asino Park, complete with street instruments: marimbas, aerophones, drums, and inclined xylophones.

"These are installations and instruments that people can interact with. Currently, we're asking people to choose what exactly will be installed in the park. In Krivosheino, the project includes a stage design. Residents can choose its design. In Melnikovo, the School Forest project is promising - it includes interesting filler and functionality. In the future, a skate park might be added," Kupritz said.

More projects on the way

Originally, it was planned to renovate 43 public spaces in 2025. However, during the competitive process, savings were made, enabling the inclusion of six additional projects. The total number of spaces set to receive renovations may, therefore, increase to 49.

For instance, thanks to the savings, work in the White Lake Park will be expanded. Here plans call for updating lighting, renewing the pavement and benches. Additionally, the honor roll and entrances from October Administration will be updated. According to Kondraтьев, the results of the voting for 2026 projects will be known by June.

"It's important that due to the national project, renovation isn't only happening in central Tomsk, but spread across the region. People want relaxation spots near home. We're taking this into account. Making a comfortable environment means hearing people," said Kondraтьев.

In the Parabel district's village of Narym, the first stage of the Museum Square makeover took place in 2024. The central feature was a wooden observation tower resembling the Narym fortress, standing 7.5 meters tall. Crafted in Tomsk, it was transported by river and installed on a specially prepared foundation. In 2025, work is set to continue: the introduction of a fence, benches, trash cans, and play elements.

"In Karaganda, Kolpashevo, Narym, and other places, people didn't just vote; they watched project implementations and participated in discussions. Each of these projects serves as an example of how residents' ideas come to life," added Kondraтьев.

How to vote

Voting is open to every Tomsk region resident aged 14 and above. Here's how to participate:

Via GovUSLAGI Services Log in via your GovUSLAGI account on the feedback platform. If you're not yet registered, select "Register" to create an account.
On the Feedback Platform Navigate to the "Shaping Comfortable Urban Environments" section.
Choose Your Preferred Space Select the public space you believe should receive renovation in the first instance. In the case of design proposals, choose the design you prefer for execution.

alexey-kondratyev-tomsk-region, infraestructure-for-life, Голосование-за-территори, благоустройство-2026, Облепихово, RIA-Tomsk

In the 'Shaping Comforturable Urban Environments' section on the feedback platform, residents of Tomsk region aged 14 and above can vote for the design and location of the 2025 home-and-garden and lifestyle projects, as part of the national project 'Infrastructure for Life'.
Alexey Konдraтьев, Tomsk region's deputy governor for construction and architecture, mentioned that some of the areas under consideration for renovation in 2025 are Obelihovo, a potential site for a children's playground and relaxation area, and DK "Tomsky Perekreostok" in a strong design proposal section.
To prevent vandalism and cater to seniors, architects may choose strong materials like concrete or metal for trash cans and benches in home-and-garden renovation projects under the national project 'Infrastructure for Life' in 2025.