New Southern Part of Riga Central Station to Get Exterior Finish by Year’s End, but Trains Won’t Run Until Mid-2028

Construction of the new southern part of Riga Central Station is nearing an important milestone – the building’s exterior will be finished by the end of this year. However, this will be only a cosmetic change for now, as the practical benefits for passengers will not be realized for several more years. The first trains are expected to start operating on the new platforms no earlier than mid-2028.

Despite the facade being completed, the station’s functional readiness will require additional time. Latvian Television has investigated what else needs to be built between now and then, and how the already finished building will be used in the interim. No specific details have been released, but the structure could serve as a waiting area or commercial space while the rest of the project is finished.

The project is part of a broader modernization of Riga’s railway infrastructure, aimed at improving passenger service and increasing station capacity. However, the delays from the original schedule indicate complexities in construction or funding. It remains unclear whether the current timeline will be met, given that significant work is still required before 2028.

Passengers should expect the current part of the station to continue operating until the new section is fully commissioned. The new platforms will provide additional space and a more modern environment, but that will not happen until nearly four years from now.