Helsinki has opened the Kruunuvuori Bridge, the longest bridge in Finland, restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, and trams [1, 2].

The project represents a significant shift in urban planning by banning cars and motorcycles entirely. This move aligns with Helsinki's broader strategy to prioritize sustainable transit and expand its network of bike lanes and tram infrastructure [1].

The bridge opened over a weekend in late April 2024 [1, 2]. During the opening day, the city recorded about 50,000 visitors [1].

Designed to facilitate movement across the city, the bridge serves as a critical link for non-motorized transport. By removing private vehicles from the route, the city aims to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions while encouraging a culture of walking and cycling [1].

The infrastructure investment focuses on integrating the tram system with pedestrian paths to ensure seamless connectivity between districts. This approach reflects a growing trend in European urban design to reclaim transit space from automobiles, prioritizing accessibility for the general public over private car ownership [1, 2].

“Finland's longest bridge is now open exclusively to pedestrians, cyclists, and trams.”

The Kruunuvuori Bridge serves as a tangible implementation of '15-minute city' principles, where essential services and transport are accessible without a car. By designating the nation's longest bridge as car-free, Helsinki is signaling a long-term policy shift toward decarbonized urban mobility and the prioritization of public transit over individual vehicle transit.