Oulu region approves funding for new commuter rail link to Liminka

The cities of Oulu and Liminka have approved municipal funding for a new commuter rail service between Oulu and Liminka, following a similar decision by Kempele last week, reports Yle.

The three municipalities will now jointly develop the rail link, with operations set to begin in the early 2030s. Trains will run hourly in each direction, connecting Oulu, Kempele, and Liminka.

Oulu’s city council voted 59–8 in favor of the project on Monday, with the Finns Party opposing it over concerns about cost and ridership estimates. Liminka’s council approved the plan 28–5, also facing opposition from the Finns Party.

Costs and funding structure
Each municipality will cover one-third of the gross operating and rolling stock costs, estimated at €3.0–3.5 million annually for ten years starting in 2031. After accounting for ticket revenue, net costs per municipality will be around €800,000 yearly—roughly 2 percent of Oulu’s total public transport budget.

Oulu Mayor Ari Alatossava called the decision “historic,” while Green Party councilor Susa Vikeväkorva emphasized the benefits for cross-municipal commuters. Social Democrat Joni Meriläinen acknowledged initial low ridership but stressed long-term regional planning.

Criticism and expansion plans
Finns Party representatives, including MP Pekka Aitakumpu, dismissed the project as a waste of tax money, arguing that car travel remains the preferred option. Some councilors, like Centre Party’s Mirja Vehkäperä, advocated for future expansion northward to Ii, while Kokoomus’ Susanne Kisner raised concerns about rushed planning and insufficient data.

Former railway worker Mikko Viitanen (Left Alliance) welcomed the project, citing traffic congestion on Highway 4 as a key motivator. Construction is expected to start on the Oulu–Liminka section, with Liminka’s railway station serving as a hub.