The four-year wait is over for light-rail riders wondering when they'd be able to use the new platform at Nicollet Mall Station.

Friday's the day passengers will be able to get on or off Blue and Green line trains heading towards Target Field from both sides of rail vehicles as the new platform adjacent to the 26-story apartment building, Nic on Fifth.

Nicollet Mall now marks the only station where customers can board or exit from both sides of the train.

Construction on the platform at the rail system's second-busiest station began in 2013. Through August, the station averaged more than 4,400 boardings on weekdays. The additional plat form was built to provide a safer and more comfortable waiting area for customers, Metro Transit said.

Passengers heading south or east to Mall of America in Bloomington or Union Depot must board using the center platform only, Metro Transit said.