Riga television tower to gain glass cubes and viewing decks

Riga’s television tower on Zaķusala will undergo a major reconstruction after a construction contract worth more than 38 million euros was signed, LSM reported. The work is expected to take about three years, with the tower scheduled to reopen in 2029.

The project will renew outdated structures and improve the building’s energy efficiency, while also expanding its public functions.

Two viewing decks will be built at heights of 100 and 130 metres, along with a multifunctional event space. One viewing deck will include projecting glass cubes, allowing visitors to experience being outside the tower at a great height. Visitors will also be able to use special safety equipment to step onto an open platform 220 metres above the ground.

“The public section of the building will also be improved, including the outdoor space, viewing decks and visitor facilities,” said Jūlija Batalauska, head of the project management department at the Latvian State Radio and Television Centre. She said the aim was to create a modern and accessible environment for residents and visitors to Riga, with capacity for up to 150,000 visitors a year in the future.

The procurement process lasted two years and attracted seven bidders, including construction company groups from Latvia and abroad. Five bidders remained in the second round. The contract was ultimately awarded to a consortium comprising the Latvian companies Argus, AB RENT and 3A.

The Zaķusala television tower has been one of Riga’s most recognisable symbols for more than 40 years and is an important part of the city’s electronic communications infrastructure.