Rail Baltic and the company Leonhard Weiss have made a deal worth 9.8 million euros. They will build a tunnel between Ülemiste and Lasnamäe, with the work expected to be completed by October 31, 2027.
Currently, people mainly travel to Ülemiste via Tartu road, with Smuuli road being the next option, though it is farther away. The new tunnel will improve pedestrian, cycling, and vehicular traffic by connecting Peterburi road and Suur-Sõjamäe street.
The tunnel is significant for Rail Baltic as it will help Ülemiste become a major transport hub. The project not only connects Estonia to Europe but also improves connectivity within Tallinn.
Anvar Salomets, the head of Rail Baltic Estonia, stated that the tunnel is a major step forward, making traffic smoother and safer while addressing traffic issues.
Kadi Pärnits, who works on Ülemiste development, mentioned that the tunnel is an effective solution for traffic congestion near Tartu road and Järvevana road.
Aleksei Dohin, the head of Leonhard Weiss, emphasized the importance of the deal, noting that the tunnel will enhance connectivity and safety, creating new opportunities for the future.
Leonhard Weiss is involved in Rail Baltic projects across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, specializing in railway and tunnel construction.
The agreement includes the construction of the tunnel, a new platform, railway base, drainage systems, and other related works.
The Tallinn city council approved the tunnel in May 2023.