Yakov is a trained urbanist with a degree in Urban Planning from Moscow State University of Civil Engineering.

At STEP, he leads street redevelopment projects in Moscow under the “My Street” and “My District” programs.

Yakov sees his calling as improving cities by redesigning urban spaces to serve the needs of all resident groups.

In his view, a high-quality street reconstruction project must include thoughtful traffic management, prioritization of surface public transport, barrier-free pedestrian areas, green spaces, and infrastructure for personal mobility devices.