Construction Starts on Yliopistontunneli Tunnel on Viinikankatu, Closing Pedestrian and Cycle Lanes

The City of Tampere says construction work to build the Yliopistontunneli tunnel on Viinikankatu in central Tampere began on 6 May 2026, with the initial phase focusing on setting up construction areas and access routes that will most affect walking and cycling.

The tunnel is the first stage of the Viinikankatu underground access road — following the Rantaväylä tunnel and the P-Hämppi underground parking — and is designed to create a new southern connection into Tampere from Helsinki while freeing surface space around the Station District for housing, offices and greener streets. Tero Tenhunen, Director of Strategic Urban Development, said building underground lets the lake‑surrounded city expand both upwards and downwards, improves traffic flow and makes the centre more accessible for all modes of transport.

Preparatory works will build an access into the future tunnel, install one traffic lane in each direction along the carriageway edges, construct retaining walls, replace lighting and renew the Viinikankatu section between Ratapihankatu and Kalevantie. Sidewalks and bikeways will be separated; the western bikeway will become part of the main regional route. Vegetation removed from slopes will be replanted with biodiversity in mind.

Pedestrians and cyclists will be diverted via Ratapihankatu, Kanslerinrinne and Kalevantie for about six months while Viinikankatu is closed to them. Motorists will keep one lane in both directions at a reduced 30 km/h limit. An isolated, partially covered and lit route for pedestrians and cyclists is due to open at the end of 2026.

The project is a joint procurement with Finnpark Parkisto Oy. The City Council approved a €50 million contribution in September 2024, and Kreate Oy is the contractor for the Yliopistontunneli.