Pirkkala Lays First Tram Tracks in Partola, Becomes Finland's First Tram Municipality

ePressi reports that Pirkkala installed its first tram tracks in Partola on 20 April 2026, becoming the first municipality in Finland to host a tram network. Work has begun on street-level rail construction along Damaskitie between Mustimäenkuja and the vehicle inspection station; the tracks are now visible at street level.

Construction of the Pirkkala–Linnainmaa tram line and associated street works will continue through 2027, with services to Partola scheduled to begin in August 2028. Initial services will run between Sorin aukio and Partola stops and between Kaupin campus and Ruotula, with Partola serving as the phase‑one terminus at the new Partola square.

Mayor Marko Jarva described the project as a long-term investment in everyday mobility and local vitality. "The tram is an investment in everyday life: smoother commutes, easier movement and better accessibility. Above all it is an investment in sustainable growth," he said, adding the line will draw residents, businesses and services to the area and strengthen ties with Tampere and the wider region.

For the project team, laying the tracks marked a milestone. Pekka Sirviö, CEO of Tampereen Raitiotie Oy, noted a survey last October showed 72 percent of Pirkkala residents view the tram positively. Project manager Sari Valjus of the Tampere Tram Pirkkala–Linnainmaa alliance said the site has moved from underground work to visible surface construction. "This summer we will complete remaining municipal engineering works such as district heating lines and cable routes. Next year we will focus on finishing touches and install overhead contact lines," she said.

Residents and drivers should expect a series of traffic changes in spring and summer 2026 as work proceeds. Naistenmatka and Isomäentie junctions will be shifted north to make room for track foundations; bus stops will be relocated and several roundabouts enlarged to accommodate rails. The Kaartotie junction to Naistenmatka will be closed to cars for about a month in June, with a detour routed via Elinantie and Pakkalantie. About two-thirds of the Pirkkala–Linnainmaa tram construction is expected to be complete by the end of 2026, with final traffic arrangements in place during 2027.