Helsinki opened the Kruunuvuori Bridge to pedestrians and cyclists on Saturday, marking the first public use of a structure that city leaders say will change daily travel between Laajasalo and the inner city. The opening drew heavy crowds within minutes, with visitors filling the full length of the new crossing as ceremonies began at 2pm.
Mayor Daniel Sazonov opened the bridge at the Korkeasaari end by cutting a ribbon after a fanfare, while deputy mayor Johanna Laisaari led the opening from the Laajasalo side. Pedestrians entered first and cyclists followed later in the afternoon.
The bridge links Kruunuvuorenranta in Laajasalo with Korkeasaari and forms the largest part of the wider Kruunusillat project, which will connect Laajasalo to central Helsinki through a new tram route. Tram services are due to begin by early 2027.
Local media reported that the bridge filled with people almost at once. Organisers encouraged visitors to arrive wearing crowns, a reference to the name Kruunuvuori. Many did. Local media showed residents in paper crowns, crocheted headpieces and costume outfits, with music, food stalls, a choir, a samba group and a cycle parade adding to the event.
The bridge has arrived after a long wait. Planning for the connection first entered city decision-making in 2002. Construction began in October 2021, and the bridge was eventually completed ahead of schedule.
The bridge is now the longest and highest in Finland. It runs for about 1.2 kilometres and its central pylon rises 135 metres above sea level. That gives it the national record for length, taking the title from the Raippaluoto Bridge in Mustasaari, and makes it the tallest bridge structure in the country as well. The bridge used 5.8 million kilograms of steel and 22,000 cubic metres of concrete.
City officials and project organisers have also presented the bridge as unusual beyond Finland. According to the Kruunusillat project, it is believed to be the longest bridge in the world built only for trams, walking and cycling. Private cars are not allowed to use it, though emergency vehicles will be able to cross when needed.
Debate over whether cars should be allowed on the bridge continued for years. Sazonov acknowledged at the opening that major projects often bring strong arguments. He said he believes residents will make the bridge part of everyday life once tram services begin.
The total cost of the three bridges and tramway is 326 million euros, including 155 million euros for the bridge contracts, 157 million euros for the Laajasalo tram line and 14 million euros in other costs. The estimated cost is about 130 million euros for the construction of the Kruunuvuori Bridge itself.
The bridge has been designed with railings that reduce the effect of wind, which has mattered in public discussion because of its height and exposed position over open water. The city has stated that the bridge is safe in normal weather conditions, though it could be closed for periods during strong storms.
The planned service life of the bridge is 200 years. For now, the structure enters use in stages. Pedestrians and cyclists have access first. Tram testing has already begun, and passenger services are expected to follow next year.
HT
