The European Investment Bank (EIB) is providing €400 million to finance the extension of the light rail transit (LRT) network in Helsinki. The funds will be used to extend the LRT network to the eastern suburbs, build a new combined depot for light rail vehicles (LRV) and buses, procure new LRVs and create new pedestrian and cycle paths. The project called Crown Bridges Light Rail comprises loans of €150 million to the City of Helsinki and €250 million to Metropolitan Area Transport. Completion is scheduled for 2027. The new LRT line will connect the city centre with the districts of Laajasalo, Korkeasaari and Kalasatama, halving travel times in the region. Three large bridges, including the 1.2 km Kruunuvuorensilta, will be built. The project also includes the construction of the Ruskeasuo depot, Finland's first integrated LRV and bus depot. The EIB financing covers around 40% of the total cost of the project and also supports the purchase of new LRVs for the entire Helsinki network.
