Impacts of the Espoo Rail Line on residents and businesses

Rail transport capacity will increase considerably in Espoo thanks to the additional tracks. This will enable more frequent train services and better connections from central and western Espoo to Leppävaara, Helsinki city centre and elsewhere in the capital region. The project also promotes regional development and sustainable mobility.

After the completion of the project, long-distance and commuter trains will have their own tracks, making railway traffic less vulnerable to disruptions. The new tracks will free up capacity on the long-distance tracks for an increased number of fast commuter trains that only stop at the most important stations.

Thanks to the Espoo Rail Line, more frequent commuter train services can run all the way to Kauklahti. There will be fewer delays and travel times will be shorter, which will make everyday travel smoother and using public transport more convenient.

In addition to serving long-distance trains, the Espoo Rail Line will improve the functioning and efficiency of the public transport system in the entire capital region. The Espoo Rail Line will be better integrated with other public transport services, making it easier to switch between different modes of transport.

Smoother and more reliable train services may also reduce hazards both on the tracks and on the roads, as a result of reduced private car use and improved rail transport arrangements.

Improved transport services will attract new residents and businesses, promoting economic growth and local development, for example through improved access to services. This will enable the development of new residential and workplace areas.

Better connections within Espoo and to Helsinki will support regional development and expand the possible commuting area.

Six of the eight stations along the rail line will undergo major changes during the project. The upgraded stations and underpasses will improve accessibility and make different areas in Espoo easier to reach.

New lifts and covered stairs will be built at the stations. The lifts will have enough space for those travelling with a bicycle. This will also benefit those using assistive devices or travelling with a pram or heavy bags. The new shelters will provide protection from the weather, and improved lighting will make the stations safer and more pleasant after dark. The signage and announcement systems at the stations will also be replaced.

The Espoo Rail Line promotes more sustainable mobility and supports the climate goals of both Espoo and the entire capital region. The rail line will create a more connected and vibrant urban environment where services are close by and accessible without a car. There will be more pedestrian and cycling routes and better connections between different districts, and moving around will be easy and sustainable.

Even though the project will increase rail transport noise and cause local changes to the landscape, these negative effects will be minimised through noise barriers and other technical solutions. At the same time, pedestrian and cycling routes and the accessibility of the station areas will be improved.

Read more about Espoo’s climate goals here.