Norway's transport ministry backs major fjord‑crossing projects

Transport Minister Jon‑Ivar Nygård confirmed that the Møreaksen crossing of Romsdalsfjorden is fixed in the National Transport Plan after a series of additional studies. He said, “Statens vegvesen konkluderer med at den løysinga som ligg i Nasjonal transportplan, er den beste… Møreaksen er fast,” emphasizing its high traffic benefit, reduced travel time between Ålesund and Molde, and lower project risk.

In a related debate, Tom‑Christer Nilsen of the Bergen Business Council defended the Hordfast project, a planned ferry‑free E39 link between Stord and Os. He argued that the new bridge will cut the current 45‑minute ferry crossing to about three minutes, boosting freight efficiency and supporting the export‑driven economy of Vestlandet. Nilsen stated, “Det er nettopp dette problemet Hordfast løser,” highlighting the project's importance for regional employment and value creation.