Pedestrian-first makeover planned for streets and park around Tampere Art Museum

Draft plans to improve walking, cycling and accessibility around the Tampere Art Museum are on public display until 2 November 2026.

The proposals cover Saarikuja, the section of Makasiinikatu east of Saarikuja, Niemikuja, Hilja Gestrinin kuja, the north-side sidewalk and cycle path along Pirkankatu between Sotkankatu and Hilja Gestrinin kuja, and Taidemuseonpuisto. Saarikuja and part of Makasiinikatu would be repurposed mainly for pedestrians, with only service vehicles and bicycle traffic allowed. On-street parking would be removed.

Plans call for accessible sidewalks, extra bicycle parking and lighting that suits the historic setting. Niemikuja would be upgraded as a walking and cycling link, and a new two-way segregated cycle lane is proposed on Hilja Gestrinin kuja and the north side of Pirkankatu. That route is part of the east-west regional cycling main route and will be surfaced in red-toned asphalt to separate it from pedestrian areas.

Street materials will include natural stone and cobbles to respect the cultural environment. Taidemuseonpuisto's layout would be renewed with gravel paths, preserved mature trees, new woody plants, perennials and bulb plantings, benches, litter bins and reserved spaces for artworks or planters. Lighting will use warm white tones to make the park inviting after dark. Stormwater will be guided to the sewer network via slopes, gutters and drains.

The plans and supporting documents are available on the city's website and at the Tampere service point until 2 November 2026.

The draft is one of several street and park plans the city has put on public display this month, including proposals for Hämeenpuisto Hämeenpuisto and the Tasanteen interchange Tasanteenväylä.