Jokioinen and Humppila launch Jubilee Line bus service in Lounais-Häme region

Municipalities have had to take on an increasingly significant role in funding public transportation. In the Lounais-Häme region, the municipalities of Jokioinen and Humppila have initiated a self-funded bus line from Forssa, passing through Jokioinen to Humppila. The local authorities felt that existing bus connections were insufficient.

The new bus line, named the Jubilee Line in celebration of the municipalities’ recent 150th anniversary, was launched following a public transportation trial idea proposed by Jokioinen’s mayor Jukka Matilainen and former Humppila mayor Antti Ahonen. To expedite service, the municipalities decided to organize and finance the bus route themselves. The New Uusimaa Centre for Economic Development, Transport, and the Environment (ELY) approved their initiative, hoping the trial—starting in July—would eventually receive retroactive state funding. This experimental service will run for 28 months.

Residents in Jokioinen and Humppila expect the new line to enhance regional vitality, providing additional connections to the Humppila train station and long-distance bus services. The fare for the Jubilee Line is currently set at five euros, or just one euro with a travel card, which is manageable for students like Janina Reini, who appreciates the opportunity to relax and listen to audiobooks during her commute.

Markku Holstikko, a local resident, expressed that the new service significantly eases transportation for both him and his wife. Feedback regarding the Jubilee Line has been predominantly positive, according to Mayor Matilainen, with increased mobility and easier access to activities being the primary benefits noted.

As municipalities increasingly take responsibility for public transportation funding, ELY will still oversee inter-municipal transport, with state financing slowly decreasing, raising concerns about future bus service sustainability and potential fare increases due to VAT hikes next year.