Opened in 1985, it is the shortest line in the system with the stations featuring a modern design.

Since 1994, it has been officially designated "Line 4," but the original name is still often used in informal context.

The line originally opened to provide access from the centre for the new residential areas in the eastern part of city, along the right bank of the Neva.

On March 7, 2009, Spasskaya station was completed, creating the city's first three-way transfer and it officially became the new terminal for Line 4.

On that day, one-station extension to Gorny Institut was opened.