Finland’s longest bridge opens to pedestrians and cyclists in Helsinki

Finland’s longest bridge, the Kruunuvuorensilta (Crown Bridges), will open to pedestrians and cyclists this Saturday, marking a major step in connecting Helsinki’s Kruunuvuorenranta district to the city center, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle.

The 1.2-kilometer bridge, reserved exclusively for pedestrians, cyclists, and future tram traffic, will open in stages: walkers gain access at 2 p.m., followed by cyclists at 5 p.m. A celebratory bike parade is planned for the latter opening.

Local residents have welcomed the connection, which they say integrates their neighborhood with the city’s core. “We get to keep our nature but are now part of the inner city—part of Stadia,” said Mia Marttiini, deputy chair of the Kruunuvuorenranta residents’ association, using the colloquial Finnish term for central Helsinki. “That’s really important.”

The bridge, completed ahead of schedule after construction began in 2021, is part of a trio of new crossings; two others, Merihaansilta and Finkensilta, are already in use. While tram testing continues, passenger service has yet to begin, with Helsinki’s transport agency HSL to announce a start date later.

Saturday’s opening festivities will include food trucks, a pop-up sauna, live samba music, and surprise performances. Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov will officially inaugurate the bridge at 2 p.m. near the Korkeasaari Zoo end, where pedestrians will first be allowed access. A bike parade, gathering at 4:30 p.m., will cross at 5 p.m.

Final touches—such as camera installations, a weather station, and minor electrical work—will continue after the opening. Landscaping near Korkeasaari remains unfinished.