Termini Station under renovations

If you are in Rome and taking public transportation, it is likely that you will be going through Termini Station.

Please keep in mind that renovations to Termini started on April 15th and consequently, some entrances to both the Metro Lines (Line A and B) are closed. A friend who takes a train to Rome everyday told me that on Monday morning diversions have already started as it took her 20 minutes to get from the platforms to the metro lines. Usually it would only take her 5 minutes.

There was a lot of confusion although there were staff on hand to indicate where you should go. Furthermore, due to the narrowing of the passages, it was so packed and some people even fainted as the line was not moving.

The situation has improved considerably but just be aware that you may experience some delay. According to the ATAC website under the section Ultim’ora, some of the changes to Termini are below. Their English site doesn’t have this information and I’ve tried my best to translate what I believe is relevant.

– There will be two entrances exclusively dedicated to the 2 Metro Lines A and B corresponds to the halls for Line B The metro lines are accessible from the Forum Termini (the basement shopping center) and the covered access from Piazza dei Cinquecento near the car park and the glass building.

– Dedicated exits exclusively for both the Metro lines corresponds to the hall for Line A. There are the ramp towards the ramp Forum Termini on the side of Via Giolitti, the ramp towards the start of the bus line at the Piazza and the ramps under the porches at the entrance of Via Cavour.

– The entrances and the exits of Metro Line A have been inverted

– In the following months, there will be changes depending on the renovation being done but there will be the necessary signs to guide users.

– The renovations will continue without disrupting the Metro service and they guarantee continued access to both Lines A and B even though it will be impossible to avoid some discomfort for users. Signs will be present to help facilitate access during each phase of the renovation.

– During the course of the renovation, pedestrian passage ways to and from the train platforms, the usual number of parking spaces available and direct access to taxis in front of the station will be guaranteed.

The renovations to the Termini Station are expected to be completed by 2012.