The reconstruction of Rīgas satiksme tram depot 5 has been completed
Tram depot 5 in Riga has been reconstructed, significantly improving tram repair and maintenance capabilities and laying a solid foundation for their future development. The work took two and a half years and was carried out under challenging conditions, as tram service, daily maintenance, and repair work continued throughout the intensive construction process. During the reconstruction, the historical heritage was preserved and combined with infrastructure that meets modern requirements.
The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of the Riga City Council, partners involved in the project implementation and employees of Rīgas satiksme, who will now work at the renovated depot.
"This is a significant step in the development of Riga’s public transport and an investment in the future. This year is a special one for the tram in Riga – this summer we will celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Riga tram. It is a story of tradition, continuous development, and the people who work every day to ensure that the tram runs safely and reliably through the city streets. The tram depot at this location was built back in 1901 and has ensured tram service in Riga for more than a century. I hope that, even after the reconstruction, it will serve for many more decades," said Jānis Golubevs, a Member of the Board of Rīgas satiksme.
He expressed special gratitude to the employees of Rīgas satiksme who ensured that the depot’s reconstruction took place without interrupting tram service, while continuing to provide both daily maintenance and more complex repair work. This required careful planning, flexibility, and a great deal of teamwork.
SIA Aimasa began construction work in late 2023, and in challenging conditions, significant changes were implemented in a relatively short period of time. The reconstruction covered an area of more than 6000 square metres. Currently, the tram depot 5 is home to 46 low-floor trams, and its modernisation is a significant step toward the future development of the tram depot.
"This large-scale and technically complex project required us to combine the preservation of the historic building with the construction of modern infrastructure. The work demanded high precision and close cooperation among all parties involved. As builders, we take great pride in what we have accomplished and in the fact that the construction work has been successfully completed," emphasised Sandris Apsītis, Chairman of the Board of SIA Aimasa.
Following the ceremonial event, guests had the opportunity to take a tour of the renovated depot grounds and learn about the work performed, the building’s history, and the progress of the reconstruction. As part of the depot’s reconstruction, historic buildings were restored, a new repair zone was built, tram tracks and the overhead contact line were modernised, and new equipment was installed, significantly improving work processes and conditions.
Photo: Renārs Koris
For more information about Rīgas satiksme services, route schedules, ticket types, and other updates, please visit www.rigassatiksme.lv or follow us on social media: X, Facebook, and Threads.
