Cornerstone laid for Rail Baltica Ülemiste passenger terminal

On May 29, the cornerstone was ceremoniously laid for the Rail Baltica Ülemiste Passenger Terminal, named Linda, marking a significant milestone in its construction. This modern hub, designed to facilitate seamless connections between trains, buses, and trams, will link the terminal to the airport, city center, and port. The project, which began last fall, is set to be completed in 2028. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Magda Kopczynska, Director-General for Mobility and Transport at the European Commission, Estonia’s Minister of Climate Kristen Michal, and various key stakeholders from Rail Baltica and its construction partners.

Minister of Climate Kristen Michal highlighted the importance of the project, emphasizing the progress of Rail Baltica’s construction this year. By the end of the year, significant advancements are expected, with one-third of the main track construction underway and nearly half of the track covered by contracts. He noted that this infrastructure project would not only enhance connectivity but also boost the Estonian economy by providing numerous job opportunities. Magda Kopczynska reiterated the European Commission’s strong support for Rail Baltica, underlining its significance for regional security, economic development, and integration into the European railway network.

Anvar Salomets, Chairman of Rail Baltic Estonia, acknowledged the challenges faced in reaching this milestone but expressed optimism about the future. He emphasized the effectiveness and efficiency of the construction process so far and looked forward to the terminal's completion within four years. Marko Kivila, CEO of RB Rail AS, echoed this sentiment, discussing the progress in Latvia and Lithuania and the acceleration of construction works across the main Rail Baltica line, with over 150 kilometers expected to be constructed this year.

The architectural design of the Ülemiste joint terminal, created by Zaha Hadid Architects in collaboration with Estonian design company Esplan, is progressing with the first stage involving underground support structures and technical rooms. Builders Merko Ehitus Eesti AS and KMG Infra OÜ are leading the construction, with a contract value of 45 million euros. Future stages will focus on public areas, roads, streets, parking lots, and the terminal building itself. To commemorate this milestone, Rail Baltica will host its first mobility conference at Ülemiste, fostering discussions among experts from Estonia and Europe on future transportation innovations and developments.