Tallinn is modifying the Pelgulinn tram project. Deputy Mayor Kristjan Järvan says that the details of the final tram line are not yet ready. Agreements with private landowners whose land is needed for the tram line are also missing.
Järvan mentioned that the previous city government wanted to make a tram turnaround on Kolde puiestee. This would have saved 7 million euros. However, local residents were against it. Now it has been decided with the coalition to change the route.
Changing the project is complicated. The old plans are already ready and are difficult to modify. The city is working on it and hopes to find a solution. They also need to discuss the purchase of land with private landowners.
Järvan does not yet know how much the new project will cost. The final route of the tram line is not certain. Agreements with private landowners have not been made either.
Work on the tram line continues. Järvan says the tram must be ready by 2029 to receive funding from Europe.
Originally, the tram line was supposed to start from Kopli Street. It would have gone along Ristiku Street and Sõle Street to Puhangu Street. From there, the tram would have reached Stroomi Beach.
The plan also included the renovation of Puhangu Street. New sidewalks and parks were to be built there. A new viaduct was planned for Ristiku Street to allow people to move safely.
Some locals were against the tram. They were concerned about noise and vibrations. The Center Party supported them and collected 4000 signatures against the tram.
The tram project is partially funded by the European Union. Tallinn will receive nearly 20 million euros. Together with city funds, the project totals over 33 million euros.