Tampere converts tram crossings to formal pedestrian crossings, adds tram-lane markings

The City of Tampere said the changes will turn signal-controlled tramway crossings into formal pedestrian crossings and add small tram-warning signs and painted tram-lane markings, with Hämeenkatu excluded.

Traffic engineer Katja Seimelä of the City of Tampere explained the difference: "A pedestrian crossing differs from a crossing in that motor traffic must give way to pedestrians, while at a crossing pedestrians must give way to other traffic. We are clarifying markings in the street environment so pedestrians can more easily recognise when a location is a pedestrian crossing and when it is a crossing."

The adjustments should make movement easier if traffic lights fail. They will also help pedestrians and cyclists understand who must yield at each location.

The city plans to add small traffic signs warning of the tramway at crossing points and to paint a tram-lane marking between the rails. Tampereen Raitiotie Oy will be responsible for the road markings at the crossings, with project engineer Aleksi Rauhala overseeing the work. Work will take place this summer.