Construction of the tram line from Nihdi to Pasila is in its final stages, and the continuous track along the route was completed in January 2024. Service is expected to begin sometime this year.
The Kalasatama–Pasila construction project took a major leap forward early this year when the tracks along the route were laid. As of January 2024, 90% of the project’s construction has been completed. Upon completion, the new route will run between Nihti, Kalasatama, Vallilanlaakso, and Pasila.
“The tracks are continuous, and the final overhead wires are currently being installed between Vanha Talvitie and Pasila. Finishing work, such as trimming the overhead wires, is also underway in other areas,” confirms the “From Kalasatama to Pasila” project communications team.
Finishing work will continue in the spring
The remaining street construction is mainly located on Hermannin rantatie, north of Vanha talvitie. Finishing work on the rail area is being carried out in Vallilanlaakso. The final paving and landscaping work along the track is being completed as part of the street construction. In addition, streetlights, traffic lights, and signs will be installed later in the spring, once temperatures rise permanently above freezing.
Project Manager Mikko Asikainenof Kaupunkiliikenne Oy says that the project has progressed as planned and that the first half of 2024 will focus on testing and commissioning the tram line. “In terms of construction, the project is essentially complete, and the final touches—including traffic arrangements—will be completed this spring,” he notes.
“We are moving forward as planned toward the moment when the rail infrastructure will be complete and ready to support the launch of commercial service.”
— Mikko Asikainen, Project Manager for the “From Kalasatama to Pasila” project, Kaupunkiliikenne Oy
The completion of the project will have some impact on traffic arrangements in the area. Traffic on Hermannin rantatie will be restored to its original route from the Kyläsaarenkatu detour in the spring, approximately during April and May. At the same time, efforts will be made to reopen the pedestrian and bicycle paths to traffic.
The tram line aims to promote sustainable mobility
The tram line meets the needs of the growing Kalasatama neighborhood and complements the area’s existing diverse transportation connections. It also aims to an urban structure that supports sustainable mobility – environmental goals have guided the construction, which began in the summer of 2021. The project also aims to ensure better conditions for walking and cycling along the route.
The new connection will make it possible to travel from Kalasatama to Pasila in 15 minutes, integrating Kalasatama more closely into Helsinki’s city center. It will serve local traffic in the area and also provide a new, unique trunk line to support the functioning of the urban structure.
“We are proceeding as planned toward the moment when the rail infrastructure will be complete and ready for commercial service,” Asikainen states. The decision on when to begin commercial service will be made by HSL.
On the project’s Facebook page you can find up-to-date information on the progress of the work and its impact on local arrangements.