Metro bridge in Helsinki to undergo repairs due to structural concerns

The metro bridge on Junatien, connecting Helsinki’s Kalasatama and Sörnäinen areas, will require repairs in the near future, according to the Greater Helsinki Transit Authority. A condition assessment of the bridge, built in 1972, indicates that its structural integrity is poor and it does not meet current load-bearing capacity guidelines. However, the transit authority stated that the bridge does not currently pose an acute danger to traffic.

As the structure is not prestressed, any potential deterioration can be detected in advance, as noted by the transportation company. The authority is now closely monitoring the bridge’s condition. This autumn, as a precautionary measure, temporary supports will be installed, and the speed of metro trains on the bridge will be reduced. Currently, this speed restriction is not expected to impact the metro’s schedule.

The announcement also mentioned that there’s a possibility the bridge may need to be completely replaced. It is the longest bridge on the metro line, measuring 482 meters, and such a replacement would significantly disrupt metro service.

In addition to this bridge, repairs are scheduled for other metro bridges in Helsinki. For instance, the renovation of the Mellunmäki West Road Bridge is nearing completion, while repairs for the Vuosaaren Vartiokylänlahti metro bridge are planned for the summer of 2025.