A long stretch of Helsinki's historic, main thoroughfare, Mannerheimintie, is set for a comprehensive, two-year overhaul that is scheduled to begin next spring, according to the city.
Along with roadway repairs, the major renovation will bring improved pavement areas for pedestrians, dedicated single-lane bicycle paths as well as upgraded tram tracks.
A good deal of the street section will also see underground renovations, with the replacement of old cables, water and sewage lines.
The city said that the repairs are necessary due to the fact that construction of the street's infrastructure dates back to the beginning of the 20th century.
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Work on the effort will begin in the spring of 2023, in an area between the downtown streets Postikatu and Runeberginkatu, and at the same time, renovation of the street's bridge portion by Parliament House will begin.
"Mannerheimintie is an important connection for both Helsinki residents and visitors to the city. Therefore, we want an implementation plan that minimises inconveniences caused by the renovation. In cooperation, we will reach the most impressive result," Liisa Taskila, head of the city's urban environment division, said in a statement.
Details
When complete, the renovations will extend just beyond the intersection of Nordenskiöldinkatu, in the Taka-Töölö district, near the city's Ice Hall.
The city said that the aim of the renovation work is also to create a cohesive street providing room for all modes of transportation that will work into the future.
According to city managers, the project will have a major impact on traffic and that it will be the largest, most demanding and difficult for residents that Helsinki has undertaken.
The city warned the project will affect the daily lives of residents due to noise, dust, traffic congestion, detours as well as changes to public transport.
However, it said that the aim is to enable people to continue using the road, whether on foot, by bike, in wheelchairs, vehicles or on public transport.
Work on the effort is to start in the spring of 2023 and completed by 2025.