Tallinn's new city government has canceled some projects. These projects would have received funding from the European Union. The money would have been used for building new trams and bicycle paths, for example. Kõlvart says this does not mean the city government is environmentally hostile. He says they are simply looking for better solutions.
In Tallinn's budget, expenses are growing faster than revenues. Investments are lower than last year. Kõlvart says expenses are increasing due to social sector support. Next year, the budget needs to be adjusted. The goals of investments have not changed.
Kõlvart says that the Center Party and Isamaa are not environmentally hostile. He recalls that major projects were carried out during the Center Party's time. For example, tram lines were built and new trams were purchased. Trolleys were also taken care of.
Kõlvart says the city must find a long-term development plan. This does not mean that bicycle paths and parks will not be built. Currently, some projects are on hold. There are two reasons for this: the project's feasibility and the city's ability to implement it.
Former mayor Jevgeni Ossinovski says some projects will lose EU funding. The city will have to finance these projects itself. Ossinovski says most of the funding is related to the environment. If the city abandons these projects, it will lose money.
Ossinovski says Tallinn's traffic will become congested if public transport is not developed. Kõlvart says EU money should not be the reason to do things the city does not need. He sees no need for the Liivalaia and Pelguranna tram lines.
Ossinovski says Tallinn itself applied for funding for these projects. The money did not come as a mandate from Europe. He argues that public transport must be faster and more convenient. This will help reduce traffic jams.
Kõlvart and Ossinovski agree that public transport corridors are necessary. However, they disagree on whether these should be for trams or trolleys. Kõlvart believes trolleys are cheaper and faster.