Helsinki Expands Kruunusillat Tram Network with Three Major New Bridges

Advancements in Helsinki's Tram System

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Helsinki, Finland, has unveiled an extension to its Kruunusillat tram network featuring three significant bridges. This development dramatically shortens the tram route from the city center to the Laajasalo district, cutting the distance from 11 km down to 5.5 km. Construction took place from 2021 to 2024, ahead of the initially planned completion date in 2027. The entire project cost amounted to €463 million.

Details of the Bridges and New Routes

The project involved constructing three bridges:

• Merihaka Bridge – 422 meters long, standing 3 meters above sea level;
• Finkensilta Bridge – 293 meters in length, with a height of 7 meters over the water;
• Kruununvuori Bridge – Finland’s longest bridge, stretching 1,191 meters.

The Kruununvuori Bridge alone accounted for €123 million of the total budget.

The new tram line is served by routes 11 and 12, starting from the Hakaniemi area. The line runs 6.7 km eastward to Hopelakso and Iliskyla districts, with an additional 1.2 km section connecting Hopelakso to Kruununvuorenranta. These bridges accommodate tram tracks, bike lanes, and pedestrian paths, with access restricted to trams, cyclists, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles only.

The concept for this project was introduced in Helsinki’s 2002 master plan, and authorities approved the tram connection in 2008. Thanks to investments like this, Helsinki ranked 9th in Time Out’s 2024 public transport quality index.

Meanwhile, Albania inaugurated a 160-kilometer hiking route named the Tower Trail, which traverses the regions of Mirditë, Mat, Bulqizë, and Dibër in the northeast of the country. This trail offers a 9-day trek, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The completion of Helsinki’s tram expansion enhances the Finnish capital’s transport infrastructure by reducing congestion and improving public transit convenience for both residents and visitors. The introduction of these new tram routes highlights the city’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility and eco-friendly transportation solutions. Simultaneously, Albania’s development of nature tourism routes reflects a growing trend toward active outdoor recreation, potentially boosting regional economic growth.