Today, on October 29, the first reading of the draft city budget for 2026-2028 took place in the Legislative Assembly. The project was presented by the Governor of the city Alexander Beglov.
Alexey Demidov, Rector of Ƶ, Chairman of the Council of Rectors of Universities of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, Deputy Chairman of the Public Chamber of St. Petersburg, comments on the proposed development program.:
"Today, the Governor of St. Petersburg, Alexander Beglov, presented to the deputies of the Legislative Assembly the draft budget of the city for 2026 and the planning period of 2027 and 2028. This plan will become the basis for the formation of a complete strategy in the context of ten priorities. These priorities include the so-called megaprojects of the 21st century, the construction and renovation of the infrastructure of schools and kindergartens, the development of the subway, advanced industry and entrepreneurship, science and new technologies, the health of citizens, the preservation of historical truth, urban improvement and others.
I would like to note here that, despite the sanctions pressure, the region's treasury will receive 77 billion rubles more than planned, which is encouraging. It is also important that 22% of the city's budget has been allocated to education, which amounts to 1 trillion 142 billion rubles. By 2030, two technological valleys designed for 6,000 students will be put into operation in St. Petersburg. The financial plan includes the construction of thirty children's technology parks, the creation of mathematical centers in each district of the city, a twofold increase in costs for science and innovation, support for young scientists and student science.
I would like to note that the budget of St. Petersburg retains a social orientation. Construction, the healthcare system, educational institutions, and urban improvement remain a priority."