Project Profile: Helsinki-Espoo Raide-Jokeri Light Rail (Line 15)

The Raide-Jokeri project, now operational as Light Rail Line 15, is a 25-kilometer orbital light rail transit (LRT) system enhancing cross-regional mobility between Helsinki and Espoo, Finland. It replaces the region’s busiest bus trunk route (550) with a high-capacity, high-frequency rail service, catalysing urban development and providing a sustainable transit backbone. The line is engineered for service reliability, running predominantly on a dedicated right-of-way to minimize conflicts with road traffic.

Technical Specifications

The Raide-Jokeri’s infrastructure is designed for efficiency and high passenger throughput. The 25 km double-track line features 33 stations with an average spacing of 800 meters, facilitating easy access and integration with existing transport hubs. The service is operated by a fleet of 29 Škoda Artic XL trams, manufactured by Škoda Transtech. These bi-directional, 100% low-floor vehicles are 34.5 meters long, with a capacity for 214 passengers, and are designed for a 40-year operational lifespan. The line’s signalling system incorporates traffic signal preemption at intersections, granting the trams priority over road traffic to ensure adherence to schedule and reduce journey times. The project also included the construction of two major depots for vehicle stabling and maintenance, located strategically to support system operations.

Key Takeaways

• Congestion Alleviation & Capacity Increase: The LRT system triples the passenger capacity of the former bus route 550, directly addressing one of the capital region’s most significant traffic bottlenecks and accommodating projected ridership of 100,000 daily passengers by 2030.
• Catalyst for Urban Development: The establishment of a permanent, high-quality rail corridor has spurred significant residential and commercial development around its 33 stations, promoting transit-oriented growth and urban densification in both Helsinki and Espoo.
• Collaborative Multi-Source Funding Model: The project’s financing demonstrates a successful framework for large-scale infrastructure, combining municipal investment from Helsinki and Espoo with substantial national government subsidies and a long-term loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB).

FAQ

When did the Raide-Jokeri light rail open?

The Raide-Jokeri light rail, now officially known as Light Rail Line 15, began passenger service on October 21, 2023. This marked the transition from a heavily used bus line to a modern, high-capacity electric rail system.

Who built the Raide-Jokeri line?

The Raide-Jokeri line was a joint project delivered by the cities of Helsinki and Espoo. The primary construction and design were executed by an alliance model involving key partners Ramboll, Sito, and VR Track. The rolling stock (Artic XL trams) was manufactured and supplied by Škoda Transtech.