Kruunuvuori Bridge, Finland’s longest bridge, will open to the public on Saturday, linking Kruunuvuorenranta in the eastern suburb of Laajasalo with central Helsinki.
The 1,191-metre bridge is the centrepiece of Helsinki's Crown Bridges project. The trio of bridges will connect the eastern island suburbs with the city centre, creating tram, walking and cycling routes. The two initial bridges, Merihaka and Finke, are already open.
Pedestrians will be allowed onto the bridge from 2pm, while cyclists will gain access from 5pm. Tram services across the bridge are expected to begin in early 2027. Other vehicles will not be permitted on the bridge.
Mia Marttiini, vice-chair of the Kruunuvuorenranta residents' association, said the opening marks a major change for the area.
"We get to keep nature, but we are still part of the inner city. We become part of stadi (a colloquial Finnish term for Helsinki). And that is a really important thing," said Marttiini.
Opening celebrations will begin at noon on Saturday and include a food truck, a tent sauna, live music and other performances.
Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov (NCP) will cut the ribbon at the Korkeasaari Zoo end of the bridge at 2pm, officially opening it to pedestrians. Deputy Mayor Johanna Laisaari (SDP) will open the Laajasalo end at the same time.
A bicycle procession will gather on the Koirasaarentie cycle path at the Laajasalo end of the bridge at 4.30pm before setting off toward the city when the bridge opens to cyclists at 5pm.
Although the bridge is opening, finishing work is still underway. Cameras, a weather station and minor electrical work are still to be completed, while tram test runs will continue after the ceremony.
Visitors have been encouraged to don crowns during the opening celebrations.
"We far too rarely have the opportunity to wear crowns. Now would be a great time to do so. Participants can also bring small flags or decorations to brighten the ambiance," said Lauri Hänninen, communications manager for the Crown Bridges Light Rail project.