Vantaa's new tram line will end 1.5 kilometers from Helsinki Airport's terminal. The final stop moved to Aviapolis railway station due to budget constraints.
City Environment Director Tero Anttila acknowledged the location isn't ideal. He said the change saves 25 million euros in construction costs.
The tram project's total cost rose to 750 million euros. That's 105 million more than earlier estimates. Vantaa's share increased by over 100 million euros to 541 million total.
Why such a long walk for airport passengers? The original plan required building a complex bridge near the airport. That would have caused a 48-month traffic disruption and potentially affected airport operations.
Aviapolis station will serve local workplaces and area traffic. The station area includes Clarion Hotel Aviapolis and a new aviation museum.
Officials will review possible extensions in 2027. If funding allows, they might extend the line closer to the terminal building.
Vantaa must resubmit tram plans to the city council because of the cost overruns. The state limited its financial contribution, leaving Vantaa with the extra expenses.
The city hopes to recover costs through land sales and zoning agreements. New building plots might appear in Keimola, Kivistö, and Hakkila areas.
City board discusses the tram plans on Monday. The full council will debate them in mid-November. The timing is sensitive because the council also decides next year's budget then.
This situation shows how infrastructure projects often face tough choices between ideal service and financial reality. Passengers will need to factor in a 15-minute walk or transfer to reach their flights.