Transport Minister Lulu Ranne confirms that municipalities and the state will negotiate the West Rail shareholder agreement again on Friday. The project is also called the Turku Hour Train.
Ranne says parties could reach agreement in tomorrow's meeting. She notes the state has long had an acceptable draft agreement ready.
Technical changes have been made to the document. Now a final agreement appears possible.
The shareholder agreement would next proceed to municipal councils for consideration. If all councils approve, track design would begin next year.
The participating municipalities include Espoo, Kirkkonummi, Lohja, Salo, Turku and Vihti. These towns surround the planned rail corridor connecting Helsinki to Turku.
Recent media reports suggest West Rail has been discussed in government negotiations. But Ranne denies negotiating specific details of the shareholder agreement.
She acknowledges political maneuvering behind the scenes among municipal politicians. The minister emphasizes all parties must understand their commitments.
Ranne wants all known financial risks clearly communicated to municipalities. She believes tomorrow's potential outcome should contain minimal risks.
When asked about her personal support for the project, Ranne notes it's in the government program and agreements have been made. The current draft follows economic policy committee decisions.
Municipal shareholders reached preliminary funding agreement in early September. Municipalities would commit €400 million to the first phase. The state has promised another €400 million.
This rail project represents a major infrastructure investment for southwestern Finland. The government appears determined to move forward despite political complexities.