The approximately 11-12km line will connect with the city’s existing light rail network, forming part of the regional network. The line will also connect with the under construction Jokeri light rail line, as well as the planned Tiederatikka (Science rail), Jokeri Light Rail 2 and the Vantaa Tram lines.
A 41-42 minute journey time is expected from Malmi/Jakomäki to Helsinki railway station in the city centre .
The proposed alignment, including the placement of stops, is open to public submissions until June 14. The plan includes two alternative routes from Malmi Airport to either Malmi station or Jakomäki. The city says that while these routes are not mutually exclusive, they will likely be built at different times depending on the rate of development along the line.
The City of Helsinki says the new line will facilitate the implementation of new houses, jobs and services along the route, with the area expected to see an additional 86,000 residents and 65,000 more jobs by 2050.
Creating the light rail line will also partially replace bus services to the city centre, meeting one of the city’s goals of reducing bus traffic.
The masterplan is expected to be completed by the end of 2020, with construction estimated to begin in 2027 before opening in the early 2030s.
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