How can I register to participate in the next guided tours of the PalaRaiffeisen construction site?

Registration for guided tours is done through the official website of the City of Lugano. It has not yet been confirmed whether online booking will be available or if a telephone contact will be required. We recommend checking the dedicated section on the City’s events page for updates on upcoming public openings.

What are the main disruptions expected for cross-border workers during the construction phase?

During the works, traffic and parking restrictions will be in place in the areas surrounding the PalaRaiffeisen. The City of Lugano has created an interactive map with recommended alternative routes, available on its official website. We advise consulting it regularly to plan your journeys.

Will the PalaRaiffeisen be accessible during sporting or cultural events once completed?

Yes, once construction is finished, the PalaRaiffeisen will host sporting events, concerts, and major initiatives. The venue will therefore be open to the public during events, with entry and security procedures to be defined based on current regulations.

Are there job opportunities for cross-border workers on the PalaRaiffeisen construction site?

Yes, the construction site requires skilled labour in various sectors, including construction, engineering, and safety. Job offers are published by the companies involved, and in some cases, specific training courses may be organised. We recommend monitoring the websites of the companies and the official pages of the City of Lugano for updates.

How can I follow the progress of the construction work if I did not attend the open day?

You can track the construction site’s progress through regular photo and video updates published on the City of Lugano’s official website. Additionally, by subscribing to the City’s newsletter, you will receive direct communications about project developments and upcoming citizen engagement initiatives.

PalaRaiffeisen in Lugano: open day to discover the mega-project

By Laura Bianchi (editorial byline of the newsroom, AI-generated text) · Published on 18 April 2026

PalaRaiffeisen construction site in Lugano during the open day on April 18, 2026

On Saturday, 18 April 2026, the City of Lugano will host an open day at the construction site of the future PalaRaiffeisen as part of the Sports and Events Complex.

Context

TL;DR

PalaRaiffeisen open day on April 18, 2026 in Lugano.
Free guided tours to see construction progress.
Project part of Lugano's urban development strategy.
Impact on cross-border workers' commute and job opportunities.

Key facts

Event: PalaRaiffeisen open day.
Date: April 18, 2026.
Location: Lugano, Switzerland.
Time: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
Project: Polo Sportivo e degli Eventi (PSE).
Completion: Phase 1 by end of 2026.
Impact: Improved mobility and job opportunities for cross-border workers.
Sustainability: Use of recycled materials and optimized energy consumption.

On Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, the City of Lugano opened the gates to the construction site of the PalaRaiffeisen, offering citizens the chance to visit free of charge one of the most anticipated construction sites of the PSE (Polo Sportivo e degli Eventi). The open day, organized in 30-minute slots, allowed hundreds of people to get up close and personal with the progress of the works and learn about the project’s details.

The PalaRaiffeisen is a key component of the area’s future layout, which will also include the newly completed stadium. According to the schedule, Phase 1 of the PSE, dedicated to sports facilities, is set to be completed by the end of 2026. The guided tour, free and open to all, offered a close-up view of the structures under construction and the technologies being used.

The PSE Project: Between Sport and Innovation

The Lugano Polo Sportivo e degli Eventi is an ambitious project aimed at redefining the spaces dedicated to sports and cultural events in the city. The newly completed stadium will be complemented by the PalaRaiffeisen, which will host major sporting events, concerts, and high-profile initiatives. The construction site visit highlighted the scale of the project, with particular focus on the structural and logistical solutions adopted to ensure maximum safety and usability.

The guides present during the day explained the construction phases and timelines, answering questions from the public. The initiative generated great interest, with long queues of people waiting to access the tour slots. Participation required prior registration, though entry was completely free, as emphasized by the organizers.

A Day of Transparency and Citizen Engagement

The decision to organize an open day aligns with a broader strategy of transparency and community involvement in the city’s urban development projects. Lugano is currently undergoing a period of significant transformation, with substantial investments in infrastructure aimed at improving residents’ quality of life and enhancing the area’s appeal. The PalaRaiffeisen, in particular, represents an opportunity to position the city as a hub for national and international events.

During the visit, it was possible to get a close look at the construction technologies used, with a focus on environmental sustainability. The operators highlighted the adoption of eco-friendly solutions, such as the use of recycled materials and optimized energy consumption during the construction phase. A noteworthy detail for a city that aims to set an example in urban sustainability.

Operational details

The open day at the PalaRaiffeisen was not just an opportunity to admire an evolving construction site, but also a chance to reflect on the opportunities this major project will bring to Lugano and Ticino. For cross-border workers in particular, the project holds strategic value, both in terms of employment and logistics.

Impact on cross-border workers: what’s changing?

For transborder commuters who cross the border daily to reach Lugano, the PalaRaiffeisen and the new stadium represent an opportunity in terms of mobility and accessibility. The proximity of the sports hub to the railway station and major public transport hubs will streamline travel, reducing commute times and improving connectivity. Furthermore, the increased appeal of the city could lead to a higher demand for services, potentially benefiting the local job market as well.

However, it’s important to consider any potential disruptions during the construction phase. Work, which will continue until the end of 2026, may result in traffic restrictions and limited parking in the surrounding areas. For cross-border workers who commute to Lugano daily, it’s advisable to plan journeys in advance, taking into account possible changes to usual routes.

📊 Key considerations for cross-border workers

Enhanced accessibility to Lugano’s city centre and main transport links
Possible temporary disruptions during construction (2024–2026)
Long-term benefits include improved urban connectivity and job opportunities

An opportunity for the region

The PalaRaiffeisen is more than just a sports facility; it’s a catalyst for development across the entire area. The increase in tourist flows and cultural events could boost the local economy, with positive ripple effects for commercial and hospitality businesses. For cross-border workers, this means a wider range of services and a more dynamic, livable city.

At the same time, it’s crucial to emphasize that the project’s long-term benefits will depend on how efficiently the transition phase is managed, with efforts to minimize disruptions for residents and workers. The open day marked a first step toward greater collective awareness, but the true impact will only be measurable once construction is complete.

⚠️ Planning ahead

"The PalaRaiffeisen will redefine Lugano’s urban landscape, but its success hinges on balancing progress with minimal disruption during construction."

Comparison with other Swiss cities

Lugano is not the only Swiss city investing in major sports infrastructure. Zurich, Geneva, and Basel have already completed similar projects, yielding positive results in terms of attractiveness and urban development. However, the PalaRaiffeisen stands out for its strategic location, just steps from the historic centre and key rail connections. This makes it a key element in positioning Lugano as a mid-sized European city capable of competing with larger urban hubs.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

The open day at the PalaRaiffeisen gave citizens and cross-border workers a preview of what the future sports and events hub in Lugano will look like. But what are the next steps for those who want to follow the project's progress or get actively involved? Here’s a practical guide to staying updated and making the most of the opportunities offered by the construction site.

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Tracking construction progress

For those who couldn’t attend the open day, it’s possible to follow the construction site’s progress through the official channels of the City of Lugano. The municipal website regularly publishes photographic and video updates showing the work’s advancement. Additionally, further public engagement initiatives—such as guided tours and informational meetings—will be announced promptly.

It’s also advisable to subscribe to the City of Lugano’s newsletter to receive direct updates in your email inbox. This way, you’ll always be informed about upcoming public openings and any changes to access routes to the construction site.

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Planning your commute: what to know

For cross-border workers who travel to Lugano daily, staying updated on any traffic restrictions or parking limitations during the construction phase is essential. The City of Lugano has already created an interactive map highlighting the areas affected by the works and recommending alternative routes. This tool, available on the official website, allows you to view real-time congestion risks and plan your commute with greater ease.

For those using public transport, it’s useful to check the updated schedules of SBB and Ticino’s regional bus services, as temporary route modifications may be introduced due to the construction work. Collaboration between cantonal authorities and transport operators is crucial to ensuring service continuity and minimising disruptions for commuters.

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Job opportunities and training

The PalaRaiffeisen construction site also presents opportunities for workers in the construction and technical sectors. Demand for skilled labour is steadily increasing, particularly for roles such as engineers, architects, specialised workers, and safety technicians. Those interested in participating in the works can check job offers published by the companies involved, which often seek temporary staff.

The SUPSI (University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland) may also organise specific training courses to update workers’ skills in line with the project’s needs. Staying informed through the university’s or the City of Lugano’s official channels is the best way to seize these opportunities.

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Useful tools for cross-border workers

Cross-border commuters looking to explore the opportunities offered by the project—or simply stay updated—can find a range of practical tools on the Frontaliere Ticino website. These include a calculator to estimate commuting costs and a comparator to evaluate the most cost-effective public transport options. Additionally, you can access updated guides on construction site access procedures and cantonal regulations regarding construction and safety.

📊 Don’t miss the chance to be an active part of this urban transformation: regularly visit the official channels and get ready to experience the future of Lugano firsthand.

Source: tio.ch

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I register to participate in the next guided tours of the PalaRaiffeisen construction site?: Registration for guided tours is done through the official website of the City of Lugano. It has not yet been confirmed whether online booking will be available or if a telephone contact will be required. We recommend checking the dedicated section on the City’s events page for updates on upcoming public openings.
What are the main disruptions expected for cross-border workers during the construction phase?: During the works, traffic and parking restrictions will be in place in the areas surrounding the PalaRaiffeisen. The City of Lugano has created an interactive map with recommended alternative routes, available on its official website. We advise consulting it regularly to plan your journeys.
Will the PalaRaiffeisen be accessible during sporting or cultural events once completed?: Yes, once construction is finished, the PalaRaiffeisen will host sporting events, concerts, and major initiatives. The venue will therefore be open to the public during events, with entry and security procedures to be defined based on current regulations.
Are there job opportunities for cross-border workers on the PalaRaiffeisen construction site?: Yes, the construction site requires skilled labour in various sectors, including construction, engineering, and safety. Job offers are published by the companies involved, and in some cases, specific training courses may be organised. We recommend monitoring the websites of the companies and the official pages of the City of Lugano for updates.
How can I follow the progress of the construction work if I did not attend the open day?: You can track the construction site’s progress through regular photo and video updates published on the City of Lugano’s official website. Additionally, by subscribing to the City’s newsletter, you will receive direct communications about project developments and upcoming citizen engagement initiatives.