135-Meter Pylon Completed for Helsinki Transit Megaproject
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Helsinki has reached a significant milestone in one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects. The Kruunusillat, or Crown Bridges project, marked the completion of a 135-metre-high diamond-shaped pylon—now the tallest bridge pylon in Finland. Designed to support a new light rail connection between the city centre and the island district of Laajasalo, the structure is both an engineering feat and a symbol of Helsinki’s evolving transport priorities.
The bridge, which cost approximately €326 million, forms part of a wider investment in low-emissions public transport. Once completed in 2027, the Crown Bridges will carry trams, pedestrians, and cyclists across a chain of bridges stretching nearly 1.2 kilometres over Helsinki’s eastern waters.
Urban Mobility in a Growing City
The Crown Bridges project was conceived to improve connectivity between Laajasalo and central Helsinki. With over 25,000 residents currently relying on buses and private vehicles, planners identified the corridor as a critical opportunity for modernising transit options.
The design includes a dedicated light rail route, uninterrupted pedestrian walkways and two-way cycle lanes, all separated from motor traffic. Once operational, the new tram link will reduce travel time from Laajasalo to the city centre to approximately 15 minutes, with frequent service during peak hours.
Environmental integration was also a key priority. The project team used modular, precast components to reduce construction time and minimise impact on sensitive coastal zones. The approach reflects Helsinki’s broader plan to become carbon neutral by 2030, using infrastructure as a catalyst for behavioural change.
A Transit-First Future
At the heart of the new Kruunuvuorensilta bridge stands the 135-metre pylon, a tapering diamond-shaped structure designed to support multiple stay cables across the main span. The bridge stretches 1.2 km across the bay, making it the longest in Finland.
The pylon was constructed using continuous slipforming—a method allowing uninterrupted concrete placement, which enhances strength and consistency. Its distinctive geometry was developed not only for aesthetic appeal but also to withstand strong winds and harsh winter conditions. The completed structure offers clear sightlines of the surrounding city and sea, reinforcing its presence as a new urban landmark.
The deck accommodates tram tracks, generous footpaths and cycleways. There are no visual barriers between users and the water, a deliberate choice to enhance the commuter experience and align with Helsinki’s emphasis on human-centred design.
Marine Logistics and Precision Engineering
Construction began in late 2021, with the pylon completed in early 2025. The project team faced complex technical challenges, including underwater pile driving and working through sub-zero winter conditions. Marine traffic and ice flows added further complexity to an already sensitive environment.
Bridge segments were floated into place using barges, then lifted and secured in sequence. Installation of the pylon’s uppermost segment required high-capacity lifting systems and meticulous coordination between engineers and marine logistics teams.
Despite the challenges, the project remains on schedule. Close collaboration between engineers, city authorities and contractors has helped maintain progress while addressing environmental and safety concerns.
Helsinki’s Transport and Visual Identity
The structure is already influencing movement patterns and reshaping expectations for infrastructure across the city. By allocating separate space for trams, pedestrians and cyclists, the bridge prioritises sustainable modes and supports Helsinki’s emissions-reduction goals.
Planners estimate that by 2040, daily tram ridership across the bridge could reach 37,000 passengers. This would remove thousands of vehicle journeys each year, contributing to climate targets and improving quality of life for residents.
The pylon has become a striking new marker on Helsinki’s maritime skyline, visible from key vantage points including Market Square and South Harbour. Evening lighting and landscaping around the base further connect the bridge with the city’s public realm.
Public Support and International Attention
The project is now focused on completing the deck, laying rail infrastructure, and preparing for systems integration and testing, set to begin in 2026. Public service is scheduled to commence in 2027.
Feedback from residents—particularly in Laajasalo—has been broadly positive. Many see the bridge as a long-overdue solution to long-standing transport limitations in the area. Concerns over noise and disruption have been addressed through mitigation measures, and community engagement continues throughout the final construction phases.
International interest in the project continues to grow, with urban designers and transport authorities across Europe citing the Crown Bridges as a benchmark in infrastructure that solves real-world challenges while enriching the character of the city.
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