Residents call for safer cycling and more stops after Lielahti–Ylöjärvi tram consultations

Hundreds of residents weighed in on the planned Lielahti–Ylöjärvi tram line after public meetings and a map survey. The consultation followed the opening of an online map survey in September and public meetings showing the draft designs. The City of Tampere says 208 people answered the map survey with 497 responses, and 133 people attended public events in Tampere and Ylöjärvi.

Ylöjärvi development manager Mari Ruissalo welcomed the turnout and said officials will use the comments to finalise the project plan. Feedback concentrated on stop locations, connections and the safety and continuity of walking and cycling routes. Many asked for a stop near the Turvesuonkatu–Myllypuronkatu area to serve Ryydynpohja, Lamminpää and Vihattula. A stop on the municipal border bridge was ruled out because of the bridge’s curvature and steep height differences. Soppeenmäki’s single planned stop drew debate, but it is intended to act as a key bus–tram interchange.

Cyclists called for clearer curb details and high-quality bike parking. Each tram stop will include at least 40 bike parking spaces, and further cycle-route improvements will be studied. Planned safety measures for pedestrians and schoolchildren in Soppeenmäki include guiding rails and fences.

Drivers raised concerns about traffic flow around Kuruntie and in front of Lielahti Prisma. Simulations show traffic would function reasonably. One extra traffic lane will be added at Turvesuonkatu by the tram stop to reduce congestion.

Many respondents urged preserving existing trees and adding new street planting. Most expect the tram to ease everyday travel, though some voiced worries about costs and impacts on car traffic and on bus and commuter-train services.

The project plan is due in April 2027. After that, the city councils may decide to begin detailed design, with a possible construction decision by late 2031. More information is available at tampereenratikka.fi.