SWECO: Sweco selected as partner in major expansion of light rail network in City of Helsinki
Sweco has secured a framework contract to be part of an alliance that will provide design and engineering services in the development phase of Helsinki's light rail expansion. This project is part of the city's EUR 1.2 billion programme to build over 30 kilometres of new tracks and transition into a rail-driven, carbon-neutral "15-minute city" by 2030.
As part of an alliance, Sweco is bringing its expertise to several cornerstone projects in the extensive programme, which is financed by the City of Helsinki and being executed by the client, Metropolitan Area Transport Ltd. The latest decision includes supporting the development of the Vihdintie light rail, the Viikki-Malmi light rail and the West Harbour light rail.
"Sweco's experts have collaborated with City Transport and the City of Helsinki for many years on several alliance projects, and we are proud to be involved in the next steps on the city's journey towards sustainable urban mobility. We will provide all necessary multidisciplinary design services for the alliance and thereby support Helsinki in transforming into a true `15-minute city,' with sustainable and efficient public transport systems," says Thomas Hietto, Business Area President of Sweco Finland.
Sweco has been a key partner in the development of Helsinki's light rail projects, providing expertise within urban planning and infrastructure design, and contributing to the integration of new lines with existing urban areas, while maintaining a high level of quality and reducing the impact of construction.
Details about the potential value for Sweco and other alliance partners will be confirmed as the city's EUR 1.2 billion programme develops further.
Press photos:
- Helsinki light rail, free use, please credit: Kaupunkiliikenne Oy
- Sweco Finland's Thomas Hietto, free use, please credit: Tobias Regell
About the City of Helsinki:
The City of Helsinki is growing, and the area's population is projected to more than double by 2050. The city is focusing on public transport accessibility to reduce the reliance on cars, and the existing light rail network is an integral part of the city's public transport system. The light rail network is set for significant expansion in the coming years to improve connectivity and sustainability, with the objective to build over 30 kilometres of new light rail throughout Helsinki by the end of the decade. More info: City of Helsinki
About Sweco's role in the green transition of the transportation sector:
Sweco is a leading European consultancy in the field of transportation, with 6,000 experts in mobility and active travel, electrification and fossil-free fuels, traffic safety, and climate adaptation of infrastructure. Sweco's experts deliver technical expertise in the investigation and project planning of new tracks and railways, as well as the operation and maintenance of existing tracks and accompanying infrastructure, to clients in the railway sector throughout Europe