Finland opens landmark pedestrian and tram bridge in Helsinki

Helsinki has opened the Kruunuvuorensilta Bridge, a 1,191 m-long structure that is the longest bridge in Finland and among the longer bridges designed primarily for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport. The bridge connects the districts of Korkeasaari and Kruunuvuorenranta, providing a new link to the eastern parts of the city.

The bridge forms part of the Crown Bridges Light Rail project and is designed to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and tram services, without provision for private vehicles. The connection reduces travel distance to the city centre compared to existing routes and supports planned development in Laajasalo.

The structure is a cable-stayed bridge supported by a 135 m-high pylon. It has been designed with a long service life in mind, incorporating durability measures such as corrosion-resistant materials and detailing suited to marine exposure conditions.

Key characteristics of the bridge include:

• Total length: 1,191 m
• Cable-stayed system with a 135 m pylon
• Design service life of up to 200 years
• Dedicated to pedestrian, cycling, and public transport use
• Integration within Helsinki’s urban mobility network

Weather conditions were considered in the design. The stay cables are configured to limit ice accumulation under wind exposure, and surface treatments are used to manage ice formation. Monitoring systems are also in place to support operational safety.

The bridge is currently open to pedestrians and cyclists, with tram operations expected to begin in 2027. Forecasts indicate that the route may carry a significant number of daily passengers and cyclists once fully operational.