Helsinki approves 48 million euro West Harbour light rail project

The Helsinki City Council has approved a 48 million euro light rail project aimed at improving the city’s public transport infrastructure at the West Harbour. The project involves upgrading the existing tram infrastructure to extend Line 12 from Hakaniemi to the West Terminal in Jätkäsaari.

Key improvements include upgrading the line to accommodate light rail vehicles up to 45 meters in length and reducing service frequency to approximately every five minutes. The plan involves widening certain stops, improving rail geometry for faster travel, and removing the Simonkatu stop in the Kamppi area to shorten travel times.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the main section expected to be largely completed by 2029. The line is projected to be in full service by approximately 2034.