Traffic planning Helsinki – smart solutions for the pulse of the capital

As Helsinki grows, traffic arrangements evolve with it. New residential areas will be built along rail traffic, the road network will be renewed, and new routes will be opened for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Planning is needed to ensure the smooth flow and safety of traffic in all conditions. Sweco’s traffic planners in Helsinki design solutions that support the city’s growth and facilitate mobility, from pedestrians to heavy traffic.

Traffic planning for Helsinki’s needs

Helsinki is growing rapidly: new residential areas are being built, for example, along the railways, the street network is being renewed, and mobility is being divided into more and more different modes of transport. At the same time, the city centre is becoming denser, and the aim is to integrate suburban areas more closely into the public transport network. Helsinki’s goal is to reduce traffic emissions, increase the share of walking and cycling, and ensure that everyday mobility also works in the midst of growth.

The change places demands on the planning of routes, capacity and safety: these are at the heart of our traffic planning. At Sweco, we are familiar with the special characteristics of the capital, such as congested routes, dense city centres and maritime conditions.

Our traffic planning is based on a comprehensive understanding of traffic, from a single junction to the transport systems of the entire region. We work closely with the city’s public and private operators to ensure that the plans support smooth everyday life, functional connections and long-term urban development.

Pre-planning and general planning

We implement preliminary and general traffic plans for projects of all sizes, from the city’s street network to traffic hubs. We assess the functionality, safety and cost impacts of the alternatives and bring information modelling and simulation to support decision-making.

Land use and zoning

In land use planning, transport is a key part of a functioning environment. We produce traffic surveys and solutions for the regional, master plan and local detailed plan levels. Our design supports accessibility and prioritisessolutions for walking, cycling and public transport.

Traffic control and temporary arrangements

We prepare traffic control plansand traffic arrangements during the work for the different implementation phases of the project. We take care of the usability and clarity of signs, traffic lights and signage. We use digital GIS tools and modelling to ensure safe movement also during construction.

Transport system surveys and strategic planning

We support municipalities and authorities in the development of transport systems and strategic decision-making. We prepare transport system reports, land use, housing and transport (MAL plans) and transport policy reviews. In our projects, we emphasize impact and interaction.

Impact assessment and fitness reviews

We carry out traffic impact assessments at different planning stages, from individual connections to large infrastructure projects. We simulate the functionality of different transport options and assess their impacts on the transport network, the environment and the user experience.

Traffic planning for industry and logistics

In industrial areas, traffic planning focuses on efficiency, safety and predictability. We design transport solutions for logistics centres, ports and industrial sites, taking into account the special needs of heavy-duty transport. With our solutions, we support smooth transport flows and a safe working environment.

Planning of special transports

We plan the routes of special transports and check their technical prerequisites. We investigate e.g. height and width restrictions, the load-bearing capacity of bridges, tunnels and other possible obstacles. In addition, we carry out lane inspections with different vehicle types so that transports can be carried out seamlessly even in dense urban environments.

Traffic surveys and surveys

We prepare traffic surveys and user surveys to support decision-making. We analyse traffic flows, modal distributions and user experiences, and produce information for the development of mobility. In this way, we enable long-term and effective design solutions.

Digital traffic planning

We utilise digital solutions, such as spatial dataand map services, which can be used to assess the functionality and impacts of different modes of transport already in the planning phase.

Sweco – in Helsinki and around the world

Sweco is Europe’s leading expert in the built environment and industry. In Helsinki, we combine local knowledge, multidisciplinary design expertise and international experience. Our goal is to design transport systems that make mobility in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area smooth, safe and supportive of the city’s climate goals.

Do you need traffic planners in Helsinki?

Whether it’s the street network, rail traffic, zoning support or traffic solutions for industrial areas, Sweco’s traffic planners will help you from start to finish.