Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 22, The planned upgrade of Highway 12 near Lahti, Finland, is projected to cost €92 million, according to officials from the city of Lahti. The section between Uusikylä and Mankala in Iitti requires significant improvement to enhance traffic flow and safety. The Lahti Urban Environment Committee stated that additional state funding will be needed to complete the project, as the current financing available through the land use, housing, and transport (MAL) agreement will not cover the full cost of the works.

A road upgrade project for Highway 12 is due to commence near Lahti in Finland

The proposed improvements are part of a broader effort to strengthen Finland’s national road infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel between regional centers. City officials emphasized that the Highway 12 section has long been identified as a priority area due to increasing traffic volumes and maintenance demands. Upgrading the route is expected to support regional economic development and improve connectivity for both commuters and freight transport.

Meanwhile, in Tampere, Finland’s second-largest city, the deck of the Erkkilä Bridge has been successfully positioned in its final location. The 68-meter-long bridge, built to replace the original 1983 structure, stands one meter higher than its predecessor, providing additional clearance for the rail traffic that passes beneath. The project, overseen by the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, represents a key step in modernizing Tampere’s transport network. The new bridge is designed to accommodate current and future transportation needs while maintaining the architectural character of the surrounding area.

In another major infrastructure development, GRK has been awarded a contract to improve a 16-kilometer section of Highway 21 between Palojoensuu and Kuttanen. The project includes upgrading approximately 4 kilometers of the existing roadway and constructing a new 12-kilometer alignment to enhance safety and driving conditions. Design work is currently underway, with construction expected to begin in late 2026.

These projects reflect Finland’s continued investment in essential road and bridge infrastructure to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of its national transport system. By upgrading aging routes and implementing modern engineering standards, authorities aim to improve accessibility and support regional mobility.

Together, the Highway 12, Erkkilä Bridge, and Highway 21 projects illustrate a coordinated approach to infrastructure development across multiple regions of Finland. They highlight the government’s commitment to maintaining high-quality transportation links while promoting regional growth and sustainability through strategic infrastructure planning.