Helsinki to add warning signs and markings to new bridge after cyclist safety concerns

Helsinki city officials will install traffic signs and painted warnings on the newly opened Kruunuvuori Bridge to alert cyclists to hazardous bumps caused by expansion joints, public broadcaster Yle reports.

The three-centimetre drops at both ends of the bridge’s cycle path pose a risk of damaging bicycle wheels or causing riders to fall. Authorities had faced immediate criticism after the bridge opened last Saturday, with cycling advocates calling the joints unfinished and demanding fixes.

City environment officials and the bridge project team have now decided to paint warning colours at the joint locations. Placement of traffic signs is still under consideration due to limited space along the relatively narrow cycle path.

“We’re working as a large group to find a safe and effective solution,” said Tuija Vilhomaa, communications specialist for the Kruunusiltojen project at construction firm YIT.

Earlier this week, project manager Marko Jäntti had stated no measures were planned, but public discussion accelerated the response.